The Ministry of Health (MOH) holds a three-day write shop, from April 23-25, 2024, focusing on the Seven (7) Priority Areas identified by the Department of Health (DOH) held in Davao City. (Photo courtesy of MOH)
DAVAO CITY—Bangsamoro Government’s Ministry of Health (MOH) held a three-day write shop from April 23-25 here for crafting the Seven Health Priority Areas with Islamic perspectives.
In collaboration with the Muslim Religious Leaders (MRLs), such as the Bangsamoro Darul ‘ (BDI), Hay-ato Ulama El-Muslimina Bil-Filibbin, Committee on Da’wah wa Masajid Affairs, and Lajnatul Tarbiya Wa Ta’leem, the activity aims to develop modules for health promotion materials, education, and communication for the Seven Priority Areas outlined by the Department of Health (DOH).
The areas identified include the Diet and Exercise; Environmental Health; Immunization; Substance Use; Mental Health; Sexual and Reproductive Health; and Violence and Injury Prevention.
Health Minister Dr. Rizaldy Piang said, “We experienced community refusal, especially on our vaccination programs, and hope this will minimize, if not stop, with our collaboration and partnership in influencing our Bangsamoro people to accept the norms of health practices in the region.”
“Let us maximize our effort in our health information collaborations because our children are always been the first line of victims. Thus, children with poor health are also poor in knowledge,” he added.
The Health Promotion Unit and Communications Management Unit of MOH spearheaded the said activity. Republic Act No. 11223 also known as the Universal Health Care Act of 2019 mandates the Health Promotion Bureau to strengthen the healthcare system of the country by facilitating health promotion activities that will foster health literacy.
Health Promotion Officer Saida Diocolano–Ali, said the module will guide the MRLs and health promotion officers on how to integrate Islamic values into health campaigns and awareness to effectively counter distrust and improve health campaign strategies.
“The MRLs will utilize their influence in the selected Masajid (mosques) every Friday to promote a healthy lifestyle based on the Seven Priority Areas of the DOH,” Ali said.
Meanwhile, MOH Deputy Minister Dr. Zul-Qarneyn Abas emphasized that this extensive partnership between the MRLs and the Bangsamoro government is a clear example of working with Moral Governance in the region.
“Based on surveys, MRLs have played a crucial role in implementing the health programs surpassing any famous personalities, local leaders, and medical practitioners because their figure is trusted and well-respected which can influence healthcare promotion and engagement on a communal scale,” Abas added.
Moreover, Chair of Da’wah Committee and Masajid Affairs Ustadj Nhurol-am Abdullah said, “This government’s recognition of our role in health promotion is highly appreciated and we are hoping that this partnership in crafting this module will serve as a guide to change the mindset of our people to provide a positive impact on their negative health behavior and perceptions, In Shaa Allah.”
The BDI vowed to assist MOH in its information dissemination to influence the community on healthy habits. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO)
