just trisha things

I am so happy to start seeing programs on adolescent and reproductive health being streamlined by the Philippines’ Department of Health (DOH) down to the rural communities in the country.

There is an increasing number of programs that emphasize the importance of young people especially young girls in the country. Mind you these are guidelines and policies created 3-7 years ago and are only being implemented now. I know it may be a bit late…but I’m still happy anyway.

Now, there is an intensification of family planning programs that now recognize the needs of young people which addresses the fact that boys and girls are starting to have sex at a younger age. This is a feat because it has long been taboo to talk about young people’s sexual and reproductive health. I’m very happy because advocacy work is now being supported by nationally mandated programs and accompanied with appropriate and adequate supplies.

I am now attending (at this very moment, actually) the roll out of a school-based HPV immunization program for girls aged 9-13 years old. I am sooooo happy for this. This is something that I always recommend my patients to get. However, due to financial incapability, they usually are not able to get this immunization. Now, through the efforts of the DOH, it will be available to the whole country…including the small low-income rural community that I serve!

I cannot explain how overjoyed I am at the moment. I am so proud to be part of this new movement that advocates health of young people. I just use to read through these policies — and now, I’m seeing it actually happen with my two eyes (and actually be part of its implementation)!

Can’t wait to start my health promotion and education activities to youth leaders in my community! 🙂