Attended by 86 participants, including youth leaders, faculty members, and health personnel, the two-day activity aimed to raise awareness of the youth on the different measures to prevent birth defects, mental retardation, and death among infants and children.
The activities started on the night of June 6 with the introduction of participants and facilitators and with a talent expo. Next day, Dr. Narciso discussed the health situation in the Philippines, programs of the DOH, and updates on various health issues including ENBS at the national and local levels. Dr. Maria Melanie Liberty B. Alcausin talked about ENBS, and Dr. Bernadette Halili-Mendoza, Unit Head of NSC–Central Luzon (NSC-CL), discussed the Rare Disease Act.
Dr. Virginia Narciso (Right) and Dr. Bernadette Halili-Mendoza (Left) Photo: NDelaCruz
For its part, VYLH-Philippines facilitated lectures on birth defects, preconception, health and teenage pregnancy, volunteerism and leadership for health, and folic acid facts. The summit also featured teambuilding activities and the VYLH Rites. The participants enjoyed “The Amazing Race,” which helped them learn more about themselves and realize the importance of teamwork in performing their roles and functions as VYLH members.
On the last night of the program, summit-goers participated in the Cultural Dance Competition, where Ifugao Province bagged the first prize, the University of the Cordilleras got second, and the Abra State Institute of Science and Technology, third.#
Written by Elaine Kia Rosario
Originally Published in Newborn Screening* (May-June 2018)
*Newborn Screening is the Official Bimonthly Publication of the Newborn Screening Reference Center, National Institutes of Health - UP Manila (newbornscreening.ph)
*Newborn Screening is the Official Bimonthly Publication of the Newborn Screening Reference Center, National Institutes of Health - UP Manila (newbornscreening.ph)
