THE City Government of Tagbilaran continues to gain recognition for its innovative health programs, as its flagship “Fit 4 Life” Program was awarded a Special Citation for Lifelong Wellness Initiatives by the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Section of the Department of Health – Center for Health Development.
The award was conferred during the Regional Program Implementation Review (PIR) for Non-Communicable Diseases, held on July 17, 2025 in Cebu City.
Tagbilaran was one of only two local government units (LGUs) in Bohol to receive the prestigious distinction.
The award was officially received by City Nutritionist Reynaldo Delos Santos and Consuelo Estonina, City’s NCD Program Coordinator.
Originally launched on December 14, 2017, under the leadership of then City Mayor and now First District Congressman John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II, the Fit 4 Life Program was designed to address the rising burden of chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes—often exacerbated by modern, sedentary lifestyles.
The program focused on improving the quality of life among senior citizens and other vulnerable groups through sustained medical support, preventive care, and lifestyle education.
At the heart of the program is the Fit 4 Life Hypertension and Diabetes Club booklet, which tracks medical consultations, prescription updates, and the distribution of maintenance medications such as Losartan, Amlodipine, Metoprolol, Metformin, and Gliclazide.
These life-saving drugs are made available monthly through city health facilities.
Patients also benefit from free laboratory services, including cardiac panels, HbA1c testing, CBC, and urinalysis, ensuring close monitoring and early detection of complications.
When Mayor Jane Yap assumed office in July 2022, she built upon her predecessor’s legacy with a strengthened health agenda anchored on “Serbisyong from womb to tomb.”
Her administration expanded the Fit 4 Life program by institutionalizing monthly Mobile Health Services across Tagbilaran’s 15 barangays.
These mobile clinics deliver maintenance medications, update Fit 4 Life booklets, provide nutrition counseling, monitor vital signs, and conduct onsite medical consultations.
To further boost the program’s impact, the city partnered with Diabetes Philippines – Bohol Chapter in November 2022.
The partnership included intensive training for all physicians of the Tagbilaran City Primary Care Facility (TCPCF) on the proper management of hypertension and diabetes.
As a result, all barangays now host monthly Diabetes and Hypertension Clinics, offering free random blood sugar tests, uric acid testing, and peripheral neuropathy assessments.
“This recognition from the Department of Health is a testament to the dedication of our city and barangay health workers, the innovation of our programs, and the compassion of our governance,” said Mayor Jane Yap.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the TCPCF and barangay health workers and the entire Fit 4 Life team. Thank you for your hard work and for making health services truly felt by every Tagbilaranon,” Mayor Yap continued.
The Special Citation for Lifelong Wellness Initiatives validates the city’s commitment to quality healthcare through public-private cooperation.
