by Geri Matthew “Choi” Carretero
Bukidnon, Philippines — The Subnational Close-Out event for the Sexual Health and Empowerment (SHE) project was held on September 3, 2024, at the Kekehyu Business Hotel in Valencia City, Bukidnon. This event, titled “Pasidungog 2024,” celebrated the culmination of five years of groundbreaking work in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention specifically for Northern Mindanao.
Pasidungog 2024 recognizes champions in promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention.
The term “Pasidungog,” meaning “to honor” or “to give recognition” in Visayan, perfectly captured the essence of the gathering, which highlighted the remarkable achievements of local government units (LGUs), schools, civil society organizations (CSOs), municipal, provincial, and regional government agencies, indigenous peoples, and community partners in advancing these vital issues.
Pasidungog 2024 celebrates the culmination of five years of groundbreaking work in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention.
The SHE project specifically focused on the Adolescent Health and Development Program in Northern Mindanao, addressing the distinct SRH needs of adolescents and promoting SRH and GBV prevention.
The SHE project, led by Oxfam and funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), aimed to improve SRHR for women and girls in six underserved and conflict-affected regions of the Philippines. Jhpiego, as a technical partner, played a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity of the public and private health sectors to provide comprehensive and gender-responsive SRHR services.
Dr. Raima Sucor-Sharief, Medical Officer III of the Provincial Health Office of Bukidnon, delivers a message of gratitude and recognition during the Pasidungog 2024.
“The work to advance SRH and GBV services in our communities has been rigorous, yet it has brought great fulfillment. Today, we recognize the dedication and perseverance of those who have put in unceasing effort to uplift the health and well-being of our people. ‘Pasidungog’ serves as a reminder that every effort counts, and together, we have made a difference,” remarked Dr. Raima Sucor-Sharief, Medical Officer III of the Provincial Health Office of Bukidnon.
Dr. Ingrid Magnata, Country Program Manager of Jhpiego Philippines, emphasizes the power of collaboration in making strides toward sustainable AHDP, SRH, and GBV prevention.
“Our collaboration with stakeholders and communities in Northern Mindanao has been instrumental in achieving our shared goals. We have seen the impact of our collective efforts, and as we move forward, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that prioritize the health and rights of women and girls,” said Dr. Ingrid Magnata, Country Program Manager of Jhpiego Philippines.
Coleen Dolina-Anugon, Regional Coordinator for Northern Mindanao, added, “The success of the SHE project in Northern Mindanao is a testament to the power of collaboration. Our work with local governments, schools, and communities has laid a strong foundation for sustainable change, especially in advancing the Adolescent Health and Development Program. We will continue to champion these causes, ensuring that SRH and GBV prevention remain a priority.”
The Adolescent Health and Development Program (AHDP) is designed to address the unique sexual and reproductive health needs of adolescents. It focuses on providing age-appropriate education and resources, empowering young people to make informed decisions about their health, and creating supportive environments that promote their overall well-being. AHDP aims to enhance the capacity of health services to respond effectively to adolescent needs and to foster community support for adolescent health initiatives.
Statements of support and commitment were also shared by representatives from the Provincial Health Office of Bukidnon Province and the Center for Population and Development (CPD) Northern Mindanao including the Pambansang Koalisyon ng Kababaihan sa Kanayunan (PKKK), also known as the National Rural Women Coalition. The messages from key local government units reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining and expanding the initiatives that have already brought about positive change in the region.
“Our collaboration with SHE has empowered our community to take charge of our health needs. We have seen firsthand the positive changes that come from prioritizing SRH and GBV prevention,” remarked Arlene Zablan, AHDP Coordinator of LGU Sumilao.
“The success of these initiatives lies in the strong partnership with our communities. By working together with the SHE project, we have been able to create safe spaces for women and girls and provide them with the support they need,” added Dr. Neil Angelo Cabudoy, Municipal Health Officer of LGU Dangcagan.
“As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure that the progress we have made in SRH and GBV prevention continues. We are committed to integrating these initiatives into our local policies and programs to benefit future generations,” state Dr. Niño Ceferino Revelo III, Municipal Health Officer of LGU Clarin.
The DepEd Ozamiz City Division also expressed their commitment to continuing the school-based teen centers. “Maintaining our school-based teen centers is crucial in providing adolescents with ongoing support and education on SRH and GBV. We are dedicated to ensuring that these resources remain available to help our youth navigate these important issues,” said Arlene Via, Senior Education Program Specialist of DepEd Ozamiz City Division.
“Pasidungog 2024” concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment among all attendees, as they pledged to continue their efforts in making Northern Mindanao a safer and healthier place for all, particularly for women and girls.
The Subnational Close-Out event for Northern Mindanao is part of a series of events marking the conclusion of the SHE project. Close-out events have already been held in Eastern Visayas, while more are upcoming in Zamboanga Peninsula, BARMM, CARAGA, and the Bicol Region.
Photo credits to Geri Matthew Carretero, Jhpiego