Laoag City—The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) through the Provincial Health Office (PHO) has successfully maintained the province’s “malaria-free” status since 2012.
The Department of Health (DOH) Regional Office I allotted PHP1 million to PGIN, to fund its programs and activities for the continuous prevention and control of malaria.
“The allocation of the grant will be for equipment and insecticide purchases, information and education drive, food and accommodations and transportation expenses,” said Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Rogelio Balbag.
“It’s important to prevent the occurrence of malaria. Compared to dengue, malaria is more dangerous,” the provincial board’s health committee chairperson said.
Mr. Balbag also acknowledged the efforts of other local government units (LGUs) in coordination with the PHO in leading periodic spraying of insecticides in various areas with reported malaria cases, particularly the nearby provinces of Apayao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province.
To sustain this effort, Ilocos Norte Governor Ma. Imelda Josefa “Imee” R. Marcos allotted almost PHP500 million for the health sector this year. (Glydel Stifanny Acacio)