THE City Government of Tagbilaran, in partnership with Diabetes Philippines – Bohol Chapter, held a citywide celebration of Diabetes Awareness Week on July 18, 2025, at the Cogon Gym, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to community-based health education and preventive care.
Congressman John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II, representing Mayor Jane Yap, led the call to action, urging residents to prioritize wellness, regular screenings, and healthy lifestyle choices to prevent serious complications from diabetes.
“Diabetes is preventable and manageable—but only if we act early and act together,” Congressman Yap said, echoing Mayor Yap’s message of proactive and inclusive public health.
The event carried the theme, “Take Action! Prevent Complications!”, serving as both a call for vigilance and a reminder of the importance of early intervention.
The activity was organized by the Tagbilaran City Primary Care Facility (TCPCF) and featured the participation of Fit for Life Club members from the city’s 15 barangays.
The program opened with a mass exercise and welcome message from TCPCF Head Dr. Jeia Pondoc, followed by a series of educational and wellness sessions.
One of the first talks, “Let’s Talk About Carbs”, was delivered by City Nutrition Officer Rey Delos Santos, focusing on nutrition as a cornerstone of diabetes prevention.
Attendees also took part in a Diabetes Quiz Bowl, raffle draws, and other interactive learning activities.
A key highlight was the Lay Forum on diabetes complications such as kidney failure, stroke, and heart disease.
The forum featured insights from medical experts including Dr. Jameel C. Tirol (nephrologist), Dr. Christian Emmanuel Lim (neurologist), and Dr. Angelito Lechago (cardiologist), and was moderated by Dr. Lalaine Delos Santos, a diabetologist.
In the afternoon, Mr. Robin Culpa, TCPCF Health Education and Promotion Officer, led the activities which included a dessert-making contest promoting diabetic friendly and youth-oriented alternatives.
Simultaneously, free medical screenings were offered in coordination with the Association of Medical Representatives of Bohol and the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center Department of Ophthalmology.
Participants also availed themselves of free medical tests such as blood sugar, uric acid, cholesterol, ECG, eye exams, and foot sensitivity screening.
In a statement, Mayor Jane Yap thanked all participants, partners, and health workers for making the event a success. “This celebration goes beyond awareness—it empowers our people to take charge of their health. Through our Fit for Life Program and events like these, we are building a healthier, more informed Tagbilaran,” she said.
The annual observance of Diabetes Awareness Week continues to be a pillar of the city’s comprehensive health agenda, reinforcing its mission of accessible, people-centered healthcare for all Tagbilaranons.
