Transforming public health

The Philippine Society of Public Health Physicians Convention 2024, held on Sept. 20 to 21, left a legacy of engagement, learning, and commitment to advancing public health in the country. This event in Cebu City, hosted outside of Manila for the first time, was a milestone, attracting more than 300 participants. This convention was notable for its large attendance and rich discussions over two days. It was a public health celebration and a strong call to action under the theme “Lihok: Integrating Solutions, Transforming Public Health.”

The term “lihok” embodies a powerful sense of movement—inviting leaders, practitioners, and stakeholders to act decisively. Moving forward extends beyond theory; it demands tangible actions that align with the core mission: to improve health outcomes across the Philippines. The theme for this year builds upon the previous year’s emphasis on “succession,” underscoring the need for health care to evolve, adapt, and address current challenges.

The keynote speech and panel discussions galvanized attendees around three critical challenges: enhancing health-seeking behaviors, improving health leadership and governance, and balancing educational curricula to bridge the gap between clinical and public health education. These discussions are not mere academic exercises; they are pivotal in shaping how we address public health disparities and enhance service delivery.

The sessions revealed that local health executives are at the forefront of implementing innovative solutions. Presentations from representatives of Baguio City, Mandaue City, and Agusan del Sur not only illustrated significant improvements in local health systems but also underscored the dedication of health workers who, despite obstacles, remain committed to serving their constituencies. Their stories are testaments to the power of grassroots innovation in building resilience amid challenges.

As we pivoted to address pressing health issues, the insights from the livable cities playbook underscored the necessity for sustainable urban environments. These frameworks enable city leaders to establish communities focused on public health, proving the inseparable connection between urban planning and public health. The emphasis on the elimination of cervical cancer resonated deeply, as it’s not just a clinical priority but a vital public health objective that requires collaborative action and advocacy.

Another rigorous dialogue focused on redefining medical education. Institutions like Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health, and Mapúa University are reorienting their curricula toward public health, ensuring that future health-care professionals are not only equipped with clinical skills but also understand the social determinants that affect health outcomes. This evolution in education is crucial to our vision of a health system that is equitable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all Filipinos.

Importantly, our discussions also highlighted the critical intersection of communication and health journalism. In an age where information is both abundant and challenging to navigate, promoting accurate health reporting is essential. To ensure that the public receives timely and trustworthy information, we must advocate for “more journalism in medicine” as well as “more medicine in journalism.”

Ultimately, our convention served as a poignant reminder of why we gather as public health practitioners. Each patient embodies a unique story, a narrative shaped by challenges, aspirations, and, at times, systemic barriers. I remember the story of Ate Rachel, a young mother from an underserved community who faced numerous obstacles in accessing health care. Her journey—from struggling to find basic health services to ultimately receiving timely treatment—encapsulates the mission of public health: to prioritize patients and make health care accessible for all.

The urgency is clear: let us advocate for policies that prioritize patient care, foster accessibility, and address systemic health disparities. Each of us holds the power to enact change through community initiatives, partnerships, and robust advocacy efforts.

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Together, we can amplify our impact. By fostering collaboration within our society and engaging with community stakeholders, we can create an enduring movement that elevates public health in the Philippines. Let us embrace the principle that our work is not merely transactional; it is transformational. When we place the patient at the center of our actions, we not only treat individuals—we cultivate healthier families and communities, ultimately shaping a healthier nation.

As we reflect on the achievements of this convention, let us carry forward the spirit of lihok. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to action, ensuring that every decision we make reverberates positively through the lives of those we serve.

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Dr. Anthony Rosendo “Tonyboy” Faraon is deputy executive director of Zuellig Family Foundation and chair of the Philippine Society of Public Health Physicians.