
01/07/2025
CRMC Toxicology Spearheads Comprehensive National Poisoning Prevention Week Initiatives
COTABATO CITY, Philippines – In a proactive response to evolving public health challenges, the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center (CRMC) – Toxicology Unit led a series of impactful initiatives in celebration of the National Poisoning Prevention Week. Under the poignant theme, "Lasong Umahon sa Pabago-bagong Panahon, iba't-ibang sektor magsitugon", CRMC is championing a multi-faceted approach to enhance awareness, foster collaboration, and empower communities against the diverse threats of poisoning.
The comprehensive campaign, spanning throughout June 2025, reflects CRMC's unwavering commitment to public safety and health education.
Kicking off the week's comprehensive agenda was the CRMC-SPMC Training-Workshop Collaboration held in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, on June 5, 2025. This vital collaboration between CRMC and the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) underscores the importance of continuous professional development and inter-hospital cooperation in managing toxicology cases. The workshop provided a crucial platform for medical professionals to update their knowledge on emerging toxic threats, and refine their skills in poisoning management, ensuring a more coordinated and effective response across the region.
Recognizing that prevention begins at the grassroots, CRMC-Toxicology Unit is also taking its awareness drive directly to the communities. A Community Information Drive was slated for June 11, 2025, in Bagua 2, Cotabato City. This outreach program aimed to arm residents with accessible information on common household toxins, first aid for poisoning, and proper storage of hazardous materials. By bringing crucial knowledge directly to homes, CRMC empowers families to create safer environments for their loved ones.
Further extending its educational reach, a Lay Forum was conducted at the CRMC OPD BUCAS last June 25, 2025. This forum provides an open platform for the general public to learn, ask questions, and gain deeper insights into preventing accidental poisonings, recognizing symptoms, and knowing when to seek immediate medical attention.
To ensure vital information reaches a broader demographic, CRMC-Toxicology Unit is leveraging the power of digital platforms with a CRMC FB Live Awareness Drive scheduled last June 30, 2025. This online event allowed the Unit to disseminate critical poisoning prevention messages and engage with a wider audience.
The CRMC Toxicology Unit demonstrated unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health through these diverse and impactful activities. By combining professional training, community engagement, and digital outreach, CRMC is not only raising awareness but also building a more resilient and informed community capable of responding effectively to the "poisons emerging in changing times." As the theme so aptly puts it, it truly takes "various sectors to respond" to ensure a safer, healthier future for all. 💯