IPHO LDS Health Education and Promotion Unit

29/07/2025

👀||CONTRACT SIGNING AND PRE-DEPLOYMENT ORIENTATION FOR NEWLY HIRED NUTRITION OFFICERS HELD IN LANAO DEL SUR

The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) of Lanao del Sur successfully conducted the Contract Signing and Pre-Deployment Orientation for the newly hired Nutrition Officers, who will be assigned to various Rural Health Units (RHUs) across the province.

This important initiative was made possible through the support of the Ministry of Health - BARMM, led by Minister Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr., and with the guidance of Chief of the Nutrition Division, Ms. Celia Sagaral. The activity forms part of the Ministry’s intensified efforts to strengthen local health systems and deliver essential nutrition services to communities.

The orientation served to prepare the Nutrition Officers for their crucial roles in implementing nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive programs at the municipal level. These health workers are expected to support the efforts of local health teams in addressing malnutrition and promoting better health outcomes, especially in far-flung and underserved areas.

Dr. Alinader D. Minalang, Provincial Health Officer of Lanao del Sur, expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Health for its continued investment in the health workforce and emphasized the vital role of Nutrition Officers in achieving a healthier and more resilient province.

The IPHO-LDS remains steadfast in its commitment to deliver responsive, inclusive, and community-centered health services for every Maranao.

"Sa bangsamoro Bawat Buhay Mahalaga"

29/07/2025

ICYM | The Municipality of Poona Bayabao, Sets Record in National Blood Donor’s Month 2025 Celebration 🩸

The Integrated Provincial Health Office of Lanao del Sur, through its Provincial Voluntary Blood Services Program Team, in collaboration with Amai Pakpak Medical Center and in coordination with the Local Government Unit of Poona Bayabao under the great leadership of Hon. Janimah D. Pandi, successfully conducted a mobile blood donation activity on July 28, 2025, as part of the province-wide observance of National Blood Donor’s Month with the theme “Magbigay ng Dugo. Magbigay ng Pag-asa. Sama-sama Tayo’ng Magligtas ng Buhay.”

The event resulted in a record-breaking 140 blood units collected in a single day. Including the mobile blood donation held last February, the Municipality of Poona Bayabao has contributed a total of 250 blood units in 2025—a significant milestone that underscores its strong commitment to public health and community service.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Alinader D. Minalang emphasized the crucial role of LGUs in sustaining voluntary blood donation efforts, stating: “The active involvement of our local government units is essential in this life-saving initiative. Their leadership ensures that safe and sufficient blood is available to those who need it most.”

This achievement forms part of the broader campaign led by IPHO–Lanao del Sur to strengthen the blood services network in the province, with technical and operational support from APMC and the Ministry of Health–BARMM through its Regional Voluntary Blood Services Program (RVBSP).

The IPHO–LDS extends its sincere appreciation to Minister Dr. Kadil Sinolinding, Jr. of the Ministry of Health–BARMM for his unwavering support; to APMC, under the leadership of Dr. Shalimar Sani Rakiin, and the committed APMC Blood Bank Team led by Dr. Sohria Saruang, for their consistent partnership and expert assistance in all mobile blood donation activities; and most especially to Honorable Mayor Dr. Janimah D. Pandi of Poona Bayabao for her outstanding leadership and continued dedication to voluntary blood donation efforts in her municipality.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to RHU Poona Bayabao for the meticulous preparation of the event, headed with the full support of the dedicated Rural Health Physician, Dr. Dianarah M. Disomangcop, whose commitment greatly contributed to the success of the activity.

Out sincere gratitude also to the blood donors whose generosity and compassion make all these efforts possible. Each donation not only saves lives but also strengthens the spirit of bayanihan that unites communities in Lanao del Sur.

With united efforts, let us continue to build a healthier and more resilient province—saving lives, one blood bag at a time. 🩸

28/07/2025

ICYMI: IPHO-Lanao del Sur Distributes Hygiene Kits and Jerry Cans to Kapatagan and Bacolod-Kalawi Communities Affected by Tropical Depression “Crising”
July 23, 2025

In the aftermath of Tropical Depression “Crising,” the Integrated Provincial Health Office of Lanao del Sur (IPHO-LDS) promptly mobilized its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health (DRRM-H) Team to address urgent water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) needs in the hardest-hit municipalities of Kapatagan and Bacolod-Kalawi.

Through this rapid response, essential hygiene kits and durable jerry cans were distributed to affected households whose access to safe water and proper sanitation was severely disrupted by flooding and infrastructure damage.

This initiative was spearheaded by the Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Alinader D. Minalang, in close coordination with the Municipal Health Officers and Rural Health Units (RHUs) of both municipalities. Their proactive efforts in identifying vulnerable families and ensuring efficient community mobilization were critical to the success of the operation.

Each hygiene kit included vital items—soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary napkins, detergent bars, and alcohol—while the jerry cans provided families with a secure means to collect, transport, and store clean water. These measures aim to prevent potential disease outbreaks and safeguard public health during the emergency.

This intervention underscores IPHO-LDS’s continuing commitment to building community resilience, protecting health, and ensuring swift emergency response in times of crisis. It also reflects the importance of strong inter-agency partnerships, local government collaboration, and community engagement in achieving effective humanitarian action.

The IPHO-LDS extends its appreciation to the Ministry of Health–BARMM, led by Minister MP Dr. Kadil “Jojo” Sinolinding, Jr., for its steadfast support and dedication to advancing public health in Lanao del Sur.

26/07/2025

👀 | PMNP Mayors Forum Highlights: Advancing Nutrition Through Progressive Leadership and Governance
📅 July 22–25, 2025 | 📍 Acacia Hotel, Davao City

The Philippines Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) successfully convened municipal mayors, planning officers, and health leaders from across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in the Mayors Forum on Advancing Nutrition Through Progressive Leadership and Governance, held last July 22–25, 2025, at Acacia Hotel, Davao City.

The program officially opened with a powerful message from DOH Undersecretary Dr. Abdullah Dumama Jr., highlighting the vital role of local government units (LGUs) in improving nutrition outcomes through effective leadership and evidence-informed planning.

One of the forum’s key highlights was the State of the Project Address by Dr. Faith Alberto, PMNP Project Team Leader, who presented significant project milestones, challenges, and future directions to strengthen nutrition governance in BARMM. This was followed by Ms. Celia Sagaral, Chief of the DOH Nutrition Division, who provided the BARMM Landscape Profile, an evidence-based snapshot of the region’s nutritional status and priority concerns.

A highly engaging plenary presentation was delivered by Dr. Alinader Minalang, Provincial Health Officer II of IPHO Lanao del Sur, on the theme “Leveraging Nutrition Towards Sustainable Local Governance.” He stressed the importance of three key pillars in ensuring sustainability of local nutrition programs:
•Ownership – strong political and administrative commitment of LGUs in leading and investing in nutrition.
•Co-ownership – shared responsibilities among government, civil society, and communities in implementing nutrition actions.
•Collective accountability – all stakeholders are accountable for results through active monitoring, evaluation, and adaptive governance.

Another highlight was the session led by BARMM Minister of Health Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr., who presented the Regional Plan of Action for Nutrition (RPAN) and the Bangsamoro Food Security and Nutrition Plan, reinforcing a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach to nutrition.

Dr. Sinolinding emphasized that progress is possible through sustained collaboration and strong local action, citing Lanao del Sur as a compelling example. In 2015, the province had a stunting prevalence of 49.4%, according to DOST-FNRI data. By 2018, this was significantly reduced to 33%—a result made possible through the collective efforts of government entities, health workers, and local nutrition programs. He stressed that partnership and intersectoral collaboration are critical in replicating this success across other BARMM provinces, proving that stunting and malnutrition are solvable challenges when tackled together.

The Panel Discussion featured inspiring local leaders and champions:
• Hon. Nashiba U. Gandamra, Mayor of Taraka
• The Mayors of Matanog and Paglat
• The MPDC of Panglima Estino

They shared insights on leadership strategies, LGU innovations, and how local mechanisms are supporting the integration of nutrition into development planning.

In a moving moment, Mayor Janimah Derogongan Pandi of Poona Bayabao delivered a heartfelt Message of Commitment, affirming the municipality’s pledge to prioritize nutrition within its local governance agenda.

A strong display of commitment came from the mayors of:
• Tamparan, Taraka, Poona Bayabao, Marawi, Pualas, Saguiran, Balindong, and Ditsaan Ramain,
all of whom were present and vocal in their support for nutrition improvement in their municipalities.

Meanwhile, MPDCs from:
• Calanogas, Kapatagan, Malabang, Marantao, and Amai Manabilang
also actively participated, representing local planning perspectives in the nutrition movement.

Dr. Leo Johncel P. Sancebutche of Wao Municipality was likewise in attendance, bringing valuable frontline insights into the challenges and opportunities for community-based nutrition service delivery.

This event served as a vital platform for strengthening inter-municipal collaboration, knowledge sharing, and policy alignment toward the shared vision of a healthier, nourished, and resilient Bangsamoro region.

23/07/2025

LOOK:Distribution of Hygiene Kits and Jerry Cans to the affected Barangays, Municipality of Bubong, Lanao del Sur

In response to the pressing health and sanitation concerns brought about by Tropical Depression "Rising," the Integrated Provincial Health Office of Lanao del Sur (IPHO-LDS) spearheaded a timely and successful distribution of hygiene kits and jerry cans to affected families across selected barangays in the Municipality of Bubong on July 22, 2025.

The humanitarian intervention was carried out under the strong and coordinated leadership of Provincial Health Officer II, Dr. Alinader D. Minalang, and Chief of Training, Dr. Fatima Zarah Umpa, together with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health (DRRM-H) team. Complementing this effort was the presence and active participation of the Rural Health Unit of Bubong, ably led by Dr. Anesah Tominoray.

This initiative aimed to curb the potential spread of waterborne and hygiene-related diseases by equipping families with essential hygiene supplies and safe water storage containers. Each recipient household received a complete hygiene kit containing soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, sanitary napkins, and other basic hygiene essentials. In addition, jerry cans were provided to promote the safe collection, transport, and storage of drinking water.

The distribution was efficiently conducted in close coordination with barangay health workers ensuring an orderly, equitable, and needs-based approach. Special attention was given to priority groups, including women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

“This intervention is part of our unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health, especially during emergencies,” emphasized Dr. Minalang. “Clean water and proper hygiene are not just necessities—they are life-saving essentials during disasters.”

The successful ex*****on of this activity stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between provincial and municipal health offices, and reflects the enduring spirit of bayanihan that fuels community resilience throughout Lanao del Sur.

23/07/2025

Maternal Death Review and Perinatology Conference at Amphitheater APMC

On July 21, 2025, the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC) conducted a Maternal Death Review (MDR) aimed at strengthening maternal health services and addressing system-level gaps in the province of Lanao del Sur. The activity was made possible through the strong leadership and support of Medical Center Chief Dr. Shalimar Sani Rakiin, Chief of Medical Professional Staff Dr. Moamar Casim, and the dedicated OB-Gyne Department of APMC.

The event was conducted in partnership with the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) of Lanao del Sur, under the guidance of the committed and proactive Provincial Health Officer II, Dr. Alinader D. Minalang. It was also also attended by Rural Health Physicians and Program Managers from IPHO-LDS, who actively contributed to the meaningful exchange of insights during the activity.

A key highlight of the session was the presentation of a maternal death case and perinatology census by Dr. Hayanisah Lacsaman, Chief Resident of the OB-Gyne Department at APMC. Her detailed report provided the foundation for a meaningful and evidence-based discussion among participants.

Following the presentation, a group discussion was facilitated to critically analyze the gaps, challenges, and bottlenecks affecting maternal healthcare delivery. Key issues surrounding the referral system, service accessibility, and quality of care in Lanao del Sur were addressed, with the goal of formulating practical solutions and strengthening inter-facility coordination.

It is important to highlight that the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) is not a fault-finding activity. Rather, it is a system-oriented review process intended to identify preventable factors and address service delivery gaps. MPDSR is a regularly conducted quarterly initiative by the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (POGS) in collaboration with the IPHO Lanao del Sur, City Health Office and (CHO) of Marawi

The activity underscores APMC and IPHO-LDS’s unwavering commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes by promoting collaborative efforts, data-driven interventions, and continuous system improvements across the province.

23/07/2025

21/07/2025

ICYM | A Celebration of Life: IPHO–Lanao del Sur Leads Province-Wide Activities for National Blood Donor’s Month – July 2025 🩸

In celebration of National Blood Donor’s Month this July 2025, the Integrated Provincial Health Office of Lanao del Sur, with the strong support of the Ministry of Health–BARMM through its Regional Voluntary Blood Services Program (RVBSP) and in partnership with the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC), spearheaded a series of mobile blood donation drives and advocacy campaigns across the province—gathering life-saving blood from generous volunteer donors.

Throughout the month, several Rural Health Units actively led community-based advocacy campaign efforts, underscoring the province’s united commitment to public health, volunteerism, and community solidarity. To further strengthen blood services at the grassroots level, the IPHO–LDS, through its Provincial Voluntary Blood Services Program (PVBSP) Team with active support of MOH–BARMM RVBSP Team, had conducted a three-day advocacy and orientation session from June 15 to 17, 2025 across various RHUs in Lanao del Sur. These sessions aimed to enhance local implementation of the blood program and sustain community awareness in all municipalities.

The month-long celebration continues with a series of upcoming bloodletting activities in partnership with LGUs, APMC, and other stakeholders:

📍July 27 – Tamparan Medical Foundation, Inc. Hospital (TMFI)

📍July 28 - Provincial Police Office - Lanao del Sur

📍 July 29 – Municipality of Marantao

📍 July 30 – Wao District Hospital & Municipality of Wao

📍 July 31 – Dr. Abdullah Hospital Foundation, Inc.

📍 July 31 – Municipality of Masiu

These collaborative efforts form part of a province-wide movement to ensure a steady, safe, and sufficient supply of blood—one act of kindness, one bag at a time.

Under the leadership of Provincial Health Officer Dr. Alinader D. Minalang, the IPHO-LDS continues to foster partnerships, build capacity among health workers, and nurture a culture of compassionate service throughout Lanao del Sur. Dr. Minalang always emphasized that “Behind every blood bag is a story of hope and humanity. Each donation represents a life saved, a family given another chance, and a community that thrives through collective compassion and shared responsibility.”

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the MOH–BARMM, under the great leadership of Minister Dr. Kadil Sinolinding, Jr., and to the RVBSP team led by Sir Nudin Amil, RMT, and Ma’am Noraida Ibrahim, RN, along with the ever-dedicated Regional Donor Recruitment Officer, Mr. Harby A. Sarip. Our sincere gratitude also to APMC, under the stewardship of Medical Chief, Dr. Shalimar Rakiin and Dr. Sohria Saruang, Head of the Blood Bank, together with their committed Blood Bank Team—for their unwavering dedication to advancing voluntary blood donation in the province.

We also thank our partners for sustaining bloodletting activities—and most of all, our deepest gratitude goes to the volunteer blood donors whose generosity saves lives every day.

Let us carry this momentum forward—in service, in solidarity, and in the true spirit of bayanihan.🩸

21/07/2025

LOOK|HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT ROLLED OUT IN CRISIS-HIT BARANGAYS OF BUBONG, LANAO DEL SUR 🩺🌪️

The Integrated Provincial Health Office–Lanao del Sur (IPHO-LDS) Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health (DRRM-H) team, composed of Jilani Macud, Abdulhassib Kasanodin, and Faisha Bonal, in close coordination with the Rural Health Unit (RHU) of Bubong under the leadership of Dr. Anesah Tominoray, successfully conducted a Health Risk Assessment (HRA) across seven (7) barangays significantly affected by Tropical Depression Crising.

📊 Key Observations:

Severe flooding in low-lying areas due to persistent heavy rainfall

Property and structural damages caused by strong winds

No casualties reported, based on RHU and LGU monitoring reports

🔍 Assessment Objectives:

Evaluate public health risks and vulnerabilities in the affected communities

Assess the current state of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities

Detect potential disease outbreaks and environmental health hazards

Recommend urgent health interventions and guide the development of long-term recovery strategies

✅ The initial findings of the HRA will serve as a critical reference for local response planning and ensure the timely delivery of essential health services to vulnerable populations.

📌 Ongoing coordination with local health authorities, barangay officials, and other stakeholders is being maintained to closely monitor health risks and implement necessary risk-reduction and recovery measures.

21/07/2025