The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday kicked off its two-day national health fair at Burnham Green in Rizal Park, Manila, providing free medical services to the public.
The “PinaSigla: Isang Flex para sa Masiglang Pilipinas,” which runs until Sunday, is a flagship DOH program that seeks to promote preventive care, a healthier lifestyle, and community wellness.
“This is just the launch of PinaSigla. It is very important that we do this in every region and province to promote the important aspects of health,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.
Among the event’s highlights are free medical services, such as on-site check-ups, laboratory screenings, vaccinations, mental health counseling, and HIV testing.
Booths were also set up to provide nutritional assessments, substance abuse prevention guidance, and sexual and reproductive health services, among others.
“There are many activities in health care that people think they would only learn from hospitals. Health does not start in the hospital. It starts within the family and community,” Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said in a separate interview.
He added that the DOH intends to stage similar family fairs every quarter in various locations, tailored to the health needs of each region.
The two-day national health fair is expected to serve up to 2,000 people.
