DOH-RO3, VYLH hold Central Luzon Regional Camp anew

To be a volunteer, one does not necessarily need to have so much time in their hands and excessive resources. One only needs to have a heart full of compassion and a helping hand that is unselfishly caring for others.

Students and faculty members from different universities, and nurses under the Nurse Deployment Project from the different provinces of Central Luzon accepted the challenge of becoming part of Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health-Philippines (VYLH-Philippines) during the three-day camp held last October 26-28, 2018 at the La Vista Inland Resort in Balanga Bataan. The regional camp was organized by the Department of Health Regional Office of Central Luzon (DOH-RO 3), Newborn Screening Center Central Luzon (NSC-CL) and Institute of Human Genetics – NIH, UP Manila. 

The camp was the third leg for the VYLH-Philippines Batch Hayaw and the second regional camp held in Central Luzon (Region 3). The first VYLH camp in the region was held last October 2016 and produced volunteers under Batch Kabilin. Active volunteers from the first camp joined youth volunteers from VYLH-Philippines CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region) and NCR-SL (National Capital Region and South Luzon) in facilitating the camp. 

The first two days of the event were comprised of a series of lectures, team building activities and interactive workshops which greatly helped the volunteers prepare themselves for the challenges that they may face in the future when promoting the advocacies of the organization. Sharing of best practices of volunteers from senior batches in different levels (university, community, hospital-based) and different provinces was done in order to inspire the new generation of VYLs to maximize their abilities in the pursuit of widening the scope of people informed about the organization’s advocacies and their importance.

The campers also showcased their talents and wit during the talent expo and Mr. and Ms. Hayaw. Before the end of the second night, the participants swore their commitment to uphold the objectives of the organization and lit their candles of commitment.

On the last day of the camp, provincial representatives composed of one NDP and one student per province were selected. The very energetic and enthusiastic Dr. Ron Allan Quimado, MPM was chosen to be the regional adviser of Central Luzon. Dr. Quimado was the former Doctor-to-the-Barrio and Municipal Health Officer of Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija where the first community-based VYLH organization, K4Health, was formed. The volunteers also showed their fellow campers the richness of each province’s culture by presenting a song/dance number unique to their community.

Towards the end of the activity, the participants learned that though they have small individual voices, together they can create buzz online and on-the-ground, and help our future generations reach their maximum potential by advocating for expanded newborn screening, informing adolescents  and Filipinos in the reproductive age about preconception health and the importance of folic acid supplementation, and showing support and care for those born with rare disorders.

Those from the senior batches warmly welcomed the new volunteers of Batch Hayaw to the continuously expanding VYLH family. Hayaw is a Visayan term for rise or emerge. The new volunteers, like their predecessors, are expected to be the new age "superheroes" destined to help save Filipino babies from mental retardation and early death.#
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Author Nikki D. Dela Cruz, RN (NSC-CL)
Editor RPascual

Nikki is a registered nurse and Project Development Officer at the Newborn Screening Center - Central Luzon. An alumna of Angeles University Foundation, she joined NSC-CL in 2013.   

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From trainee to trainor: Keeping the VYLH legacy alive thru Hayaw

The cycle was seemingly never going to end. Burnt out by the extreme requirements and demands in the academe, I felt very exhausted. In the end, all the sleepless nights I experienced were all worth it as I graduated as a senior high school student last March 23, 2018. Then summer came, and I was just recovering from my messed-up body clock. Most of the time, I had nothing to do aside from deciding on what course I am to take for college. This dilemma has got me to ponder as I seek for the right answers. Then I extensively backtracked the days of my life and ask: “What am I fighting for?”

I received a message from Kuya Floyd last May 8, 2018, if I could facilitate the upcoming Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health Philippines (VYLH) Visayas Cluster Camp. I immediately responded with a “yes.” The opportunity to become a camp facilitator brings me back to so many memories when I was a delegate in 2016. I was only seventeen years old with fellow delegates who were older than me. To be back in the VYLH circle had me very ecstatic.

The first camp for the Visayas Cluster was held at Palmas del Mar, Bacolod City, with the theme “Hayaw: Fostering Ambassadors of Health.” The first camp was composed of delegates from Negros, Panay, and Guimaras. Every year, it has been a tradition of VYLH to give a batch name to the delegates. This year, the batch was called “Hayaw,” a Visayan term that means rise.

VYLH has always been an organization full of diverse members. Every volunteer has a unique talent or skill that is of great help to the foundation of the organization in facilitating camps or promoting the different advocacies. As for me, I have produced many posters, infographics, and videos used for the different activities in my school. During the preparations for the camp, I had the privilege of using my experience and creativity to produce most of the infomedia. With this, my energy and hype for the camp started to escalate. 

Most of the facilitators were from my place, Dumaguete City. Although some facilitators came from other parts of the region, planning and preparations were smoothly sailing through the help of social media. The reason why VYLH will never falter is because the organization always keeps in touch with their members regardless of geographical disparity. 

Day One. The delegates arrived early in the morning. Some of them were exhausted after travelling miles away while some were thrilled to know on what is to come on the following days. There was an apparent language barrier between the delegates from Negros Oriental and the rest, yet it was not an avenue for both groups to become strangers with one another. 

As early as the first day, matter has already been instilled to the minds of the delegates. I could remember myself back in my camp, trying to manage myself from falling asleep since we had to travel for many hours. However, due to my excitement and drive to learn that time, I tried my best to be attentive. This time, being a facilitator, listening to the lectures were as fresh as the time I first listened to all of it.

After a series of lectures, the delegates were set to prepare themselves for the most awaited beach-themed “Social’s Night.” The delegates immediately freshened up and transformed into their summer looks.

That spectacular night was spearheaded by Mr. Zechariah Jumawan or Kuya Chito who was a ball of laughter that night. I suddenly saw the need to breathe as he neverendingly pours laughing gas all over the session hall with his spontaneous jokes. Mr. and Ms. VYLH Social’s Night then followed. All delegates, with their colorful beach attire, introduced themselves one by one creatively by saying their names and mottos in life. Given a little time to prepare, all I can say is that all delegates of VYLH never fail to impress. Some of them were very witty while others were very funny.

The delegates per province showcased their talent presentations per group. All of them were spectacular! Back in 2016, my fellow delegates from Negros Oriental had to prepare an instant talent presentation overnight. The diversity within was really evident.

Day Two. Early morning, the delegates attended the morning devotion and did a little stretching off to prepare themselves for the day.

One of the new activities that we did not have during our camp was the Health Ambassador’s Workshop. The delegates in this activity were taught how to explain their advocacies to different people and in different real-life situations. This activity is crucial in gearing them up in the whenever they will be thrown questions and they have to answer it on their own. The dynamics of the camp balances two important elements: fun and learning. VYLH camps never fail to provide both.

The team-building activity was one of the highlights of the camp. Wearing comfortable sports attire, the delegates were set to face the obstacles. Five teams conquered strenuous and mind-boggling challenges that really tested them to work strategically as a team. They managed to handle the language barrier through communicating in Tagalog or in English. Looking at them as a facilitator this time around reminded me of how difficult the challenges were really to accomplish. Mr. Christian Emmanuel Enriquez or Kuya Emman, president of VYLH-Philippines, extracted all the key values the teams could learn from every challenge. The team-building activity was followed by a new version of the commitment ritual inspired by the movie Divergent wherein delegates have to pinch one out of five colors of dye powder. Every color represents a value they wish to commit to the organization. After celebrating as official volunteers, it was pool party time, and ice cream was served!

Day Three. The first day of the delegates as volunteers started very early. Morning devotions and exercises were conducted.

I was assigned to assist Tita Ma-an for her talk on “Rare Disease.” Although I was a facilitator, it was my first time to hear her speak and I could not help but attentively listen to her. The most striking lesson I could not forget from her was the reason why she continuously fought for the children with rare disease: children with rare disease occur only one in a million, but she believes that every one deserves to access quality health care and be given the opportunity for the child to fight in order to live. I really felt her when she uttered those powerful words. When I saw the pictures of her and her patients, it gave me the driving force to be like her one day. It was a very informative talk and really inspirational! Regardless of being a facilitator or a delegate, the learning certainly never stops, I realize.

The cultural presentation is one of the most anticipated events in every camp, which is performed by every provincial group. Intricate and colorful costumes were worn as they showcased skit and dance presentations of their provincial festivals with pride.

The set of activities for the last day were starting to make the facilitators and delegates feel the separation anxiety. Hayaw Circle is a segment on the last day for delegates to write letters to their fellow delegates before leaving to their respective homes. There were many things to write to some, most especially to the people who they bonded with. Certificates were given to the delegates, and also it has been a tradition to give a set of just-for-fun Kalog Awards. Unexpectedly, the recognized delegates were in shock as they were awarded. Furthermore, the most thrilling and breathtaking segment throughout the entire duration of the camp will have to remain a secret among the VYLH circle. The only thing I can say is that once you have attended VYLH camps, you will never ever forget that specific experience.

Looking back. Two years ago, I was proclaimed a new Health Ambassador and found a new family for me to grow and learn. I saw the importance of being a health worker in contributing to nation building. Then, I immediately saw the answer to my hanging question: I am fighting for the betterment of the health care system in the Philippines. The emptiness I felt during summer was fueled during the camp. When I arrived home in Dumaguete City, I immediately enrolled myself at Silliman University College of Nursing in the hopes of becoming one of the inspiring speakers of VYLH-Philippines in the nearest future.

Being a delegate before was a new growth and a discovery for a new avenue to serve. Yet learning never stopped, and as a facilitator, it flourished.

Bags ready and everyone was set to bound for their homes. As a facilitator, I felt very attached to everyone, and I really could feel the separation anxiety. Three days was not long enough, but it sure made us all miss one another, a family and a new one to the official volunteers. It was an emotional good-bye for everyone, but with the burning torch, they hold as they leave will forever keep the organization and its advocacies on the rise—Hayaw!#



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Written by Francis Estolloso (Batch Kabilin)
Dumaguete City

Francis is a first year BS Nursing student studying at Siliman University. 

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Inside Hayaw: VYLH launches two-part Visayas Cluster Camp

Have you ever been to a place far away but feels like home? Or a place where you can identify yourself with people who know the feeling of being there and have done that? Or maybe being with people who are also advocating a cause worth fighting for? Because once upon a time, I experienced that.

Last May 18-20 in a far away land in the City of Smiles at Palmas Del Mar Resort, gathered a group of confident, enthusiastic, talented, and amazing people across the islands of Panay-Guimaras, and the two provinces of the Negros Islands (Negros Occidental and Oriental). It was such a pleasure meeting new people because you get to know not just their selves but also their culture.

Being chosen as my school’s representative to VYLH-Philippines, I realized that it was a privilege and an honor because not all youth can get this kind of opportunity to be part of this organization advocating for health, and spreading awareness thru volunteerism. The camp opened my mind that this organization does not only accept people in the medical field but it is open to all people who are willing to take the responsibility of being a volunteer youth leader (VYL) for health regardless of race, gender, and profession.

The first day was a little bit off for me because I barely knew the people who I’m going to spend the three-day camp with. But as the hours went by and I started knowing each one of them, it hit me hard upon realizing that I am surrounded by amazing group of people. 

The camp started with a “bang” as we met the people behind VYLH and the facilitators who organized the camp. The young and fresh minds of the campers were filled by listening to the lectures on the VYLH advocacies, and the issues faced by the youth today. Later that evening, the Socials Night was a great opportunity to get to know the other delegates. It also proved that each individual has something to give by showing their talents confidently. 

The next day, the campers started the morning with a devotion and some fun morning exercises. After that, we took our breakfast and went on for more lectures about the advocacies on orphan disorders, and preconception health – the newest VYLH advocacy. The team building activity tested each team's skills, values, and teamwork. After completing the activity together, we were able to understand each other's strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Understanding these is vital not just to the organization but to our community and ourselves, as well. And, this will be crucial in our work as a group in the future. The night culminated with the most important event - setting our commitment as volunteer youth leaders and advocates to the organization and to rest of the country.

The last day of the camp gave mixed emotions to all. The regional cultural presentation showcased the culture and history of each island. This was followed by the Kalog awards and the VYLH “tradition”. Many of us were not ready to say our goodbyes and leave the camp yet, but it was time to go back home.

At this juncture, I would like to thank the whole VYLH-Philippines family, the Department of Health Western Visayas Regional Office, and Newborn Screening Center Visayas for spearheading this once in a lifetime event that changed our outlook in life; for opening our young minds on aspiring greater heights; and for impacting our lives with so much love, positivity, and awareness.

After joining this camp, I realized that I didn’t just gained friends but I found a family worth promising. The camp indeed was full of surprises, laughter and some tears but in the end, it was an experience of a lifetime. The journey and the possibilities is yet to come for each one of us. Definitely, this is just the beginning of an adventure that will last till the end of time - for there is no ending in this story that will still go on until the next generation comes.# 
                             
Hayaw is the Visayan word for rise or emerge. The second part of the Visayas Cluster Camp that will serve Central and Eastern Visayas is scheduled on August 2018 in Cebu. 

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Written by Karl Scott Bañares (Batch Hayaw)
Iloilo City

Karl Scott Banares is a BS Pharmacy student at University of San Agustin in Iloilo City.

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Palauig SHS students join VYLH-Philippines thru K4Health

PALAUIG, ZAMBALES - The Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health-Philippines conducted its third implementation of K4Health (Kabataan for Health) at Rofulo M. Landa High School in Palauig, Zambales from July 28-30.

The three-day training camp was done in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Palauig, Zambales. It was organized to mobilize the youth to be advocates for a healthier Philippines. After the training, the new volunteers will be under the supervision of the local health office. 

The event facilitated by eight members of The UPLB Genetics Society was participated by 26 senior high school students from two different schools namely: Locloc National High School and Rofulo M. Landa High School. They were also joined by their Supreme Student Government advisers and teachers.

Palauig DTTB Dr. Trisha Torga

The Palauig installment of K4Health differs from the previous implementations in Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija (2016) and Calapan, Oriental Mindoro (2017) with the inclusion of non-communicable disease prevention and teenage pregnancy prevention among the advocacies to be promoted by the student volunteers. These advocacies were suggested by Rural Health Physician and Doctor-to-the-Barrio (DTTB) Dr. Trisha Torga in consideration of the health statistics of the municipality. 

With these in mind, lectures on community health and development, teenage pregnancy, non-communicable diseases and volunteerism were given on the first day. Furthermore, lectures about preconception health and VYLH-Philippines advocacies namely folic acid awareness and newborn screening were taught on the second day. Through a role playing activity, groups were also tasked to show the possible real-life scenarios related to the advocacies supported by K4Health.

The newly inducted facis and youth volunteers were added to the roster of members under VYLH-Philippines Batch Kalilintad, the Maranao term meaning ‘peace’. 

On the last day of the training camp, an advocacy demonstration and slogan presentation of their assigned topic was done by each group as an evaluation of their knowledge and their ability on imparting these knowledge to others. Constructive criticism and review of their performance was also provided for each group presentation. Afterwards, the elections of officers of VYLH-Philippines K4Health Palauig was done with Rhenelyn Escoball of Locloc National High School elected as the President.

Some parents were also invited during the program and they were introduced to the network's advocacies through a small group discussion. Dr. Trisha Torga shared the services of the Municipal Health Offices.

The program ended with a closing remarks from The UPLB Genetics Society’s VYLH-Philippines Committee Head Mr. Joshua Hernandez saying, “Alam kong hindi niyo masasaulo in three days lahat ng tinuro namin. Ang gusto kong matutunan niyo yung sa tingin niyo naimpart namin yung advocacies at halaga nito yung kahit in your own words kaya niyong i-explain sa kapwa kabataan niyo.” (I know that you would not be able to remember within those three days everything that we have thought. But what I want all of you to learn are the advocacies at their essence which you can explain to other youths when put in your own words).

GeneSoc's VYLH-Philippines Committee Head
Joshua Hernandez

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Written by Andrea Kariza Formantes (Batch Kabilin)
The UPLB Genetics Society

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VYLH-Philippines holds Central Luzon Youth Camp in Clark

CLARK, PAMPANGA - To strengthen volunteerism and expand the network of youth leaders who help increase public awareness on newborn screening (NBS) and other health issues, the Department of Health–Regional Office (DOH-RO) 3, in collaboration with the Newborn Screening Center–Central Luzon (NSC-CL), organized a camp for the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH) titled “Kabilin: Revolutionizing Health Promotion through Youth Participation” at the Stotsenberg Hotel in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, on October 13-14, 2016.

Student leaders from different universities and members of the Nurse Deployment Program (NDP) in Central Luzon were invited to participate and were introduced to VYLH and its advocacies. Afterward, the participants worked in groups for the leadership training and team building activities. During the socials night, cultural presentations were performed by the different groups. 

On the second day, regional officers were elected. Provincial VYLH coordinators and assistant coordinators were elected as follows: Al Francis Yapes for Aurora, Jenalyn Baluyot for Bataan, Mark Anthony Tapispisan for Bulacan, Ella Lavina Domingo for Nueva Ecija, Edison Obsena for Olongapo City (Zambales), Aileen Magcalas for Pampanga, and Elvin Plantilla for Tarlac. 

Invited speakers include DOH-RO 3 NBS Coordinator Madeline Gayle Tayag who presented the current health situation of the country, DOH programs, and updates on NBS in the region, and NSC-CL Unit Head Dr. Marie Adrianne Salunga who discussed the Expanded Newborn Screening program.

As culminating activity, the participants devised plans to promote the advocacies of the organization. The plans were presented to a panel of reactors from NSC-CL and DOH-RO 3 for critique and recommendations. The program ended with a symbolic imprinting of hand marks to indicate their full commitment to the VYLH network. 

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Written by Nikki Dela Cruz
Published in Newborn Screening
The Official Newsletter of the Newborn Screening Reference Center

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VYLH Visayas goes full circle with first Eastern Visayas Youth Camp

Written by Janelle Ruiz

The Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH)-Philippines, with support from the Department of Health – Eastern Visayas Regional Office (DOH-RO8) and Newborn Screening Center-Visayas (NSCV), welcomed new volunteers from Eastern Visayas in a youth camp held at San Juanico Park and Country Club, Tacloban City last September 17-18, 2016.  

With the theme “Revolutionizing Health Promotion through Youth Participation”, the camp marked the first recruitment and training venture of the network in Region 8 and it was participated by youth leaders from Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Biliran and Leyte. The camp was facilitated by volunteers from prior batches (Pioneer, K4, I3, E4 and Hiraya) as part of their commitment to the network and the tradition of passing the VYLH culture and practices to new volunteers.

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VYLH-Philippines holds 3rd Central Visayas Regional Youth Camp

Written by Kristofer Ralph Supil, RN (Hiraya, Dumaguete)

Way up north in the island of Cebu, the waves splashed and glimmered from the sunbeams as the second leg of the Visayas cluster camps was about to commence. New volunteers from two regions, from five different provinces, came to grace the occasion. Surrounded by their ates and kuyas for the first time, new volunteers were welcomed in the best way possible, the VYLH style.

The two days in the camp would prove to be monumental in their journey to become leaders in the Philippines. They signed up for something bigger than themselves.

The delegates from the provinces of Cebu, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Bohol, and Siquijor, took part in their very first step in becoming a volunteer youth leader for health. Popularly known as VYLH-Philippines, the organization has been running since 2009, slowly growing in number, and constantly strengthening its network with volunteer youth leaders who have a passion for leadership and health. These volunteers from different parts of the country are currently focusing on three advocacies: the campaign on folic acid awareness, the promotion on newborn screening, and the lobbying of support for rare and orphan disorders. The organization has been successful so far in mobilizing the youth in making a dent, a profound change, in history.

With the efforts of the organizing committee and the support of the Department of Health Regional Office VII (DOH RO7), Newborn Screening Center Visayas (NSCV) and the Institute of Human Genetics (IHG-NIH, UP Manila), the second leg of this year's regional camp to usher in a new wave of passionate leaders was made possible.

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LGU, DOH Region III gear up Nampicuan youth for community health promotion

NAMPICUAN, NUEVA ECIJA – The Local Government Unit (LGU) of the Municipality of Nampicuan through its Municipal Health Officer (MHO), Dr. Ron Allan Quimado in cooperation with The UPLB Genetics Society (GeneSoc) and Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH) – Philippines established a community-based youth organization in a three-day training camp held last June 7-9, 2016.

A total of 16 youth participants joined the K4Health training program sponsored by the Department of Health –Central Luzon Regional Office (DOH Regional Office III), Newborn Screening Center – Central Luzon (NSC-CL), Institute of Human Genetics (IHG) – NIH, UP Manila, and alumni members of GeneSoc. Preparatory training activities for facilitators were also made possible through UPLB Ugnayan ng Pahinungod and VYLH-Philippines.

Barangay Service Point Ofiicers (BSPO), GeneSoc facilitators, and youth volunteers of Nampicuan assemble for a photo opportunity after the special portion of the training program intended for BSPOs (Photo: GeneSoc)

The program title, K4Health (Kabataan for Health), strongly underscores the role of the youth in nation-building and their mobilization towards health promotion. The four “Ks” also mean “Kabataang Kabalikat ng Komunidad para sa Kalusugan” highlighting the need for the youth to effect change in their community.

The training program, which is actually a pioneering joint project of VYLH-Philippines and GeneSoc in establishing a community-based VYLH Chapter, aimed to organize and mobilize the youth of Nampicuan towards birth defects prevention and newborn screening promotion.

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GeneSoc, VYLH spearhead three-day Community Youth Training Program in Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija

K4 Health Community Youth Training Program completers.
Photo: The UPLB Genetics Society

Compiled by Ryan Pascual (Pioneer)

Standing firm on its commitment to promoting health-related advocacies, The UPLB Genetics Society (GeneSoc) spearheaded the engagement of Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH)-Philippines with the community youth in a pilot project called K4Health Community Youth Training Program last June 7-9 in Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija.

Rooted to the meaning of K4, "Kabataan Kabalikat ng Komunidad para sa Kalusugan,” the said training program led to the organization and establishment of a community-based VYLH core group in the host local government unit under the direct supervision of the Local Government Unit's (LGU) Health Officer.

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VYLH-Philippines welcomes Batch Kabilin

Written by Lera Almendral (I3)

Batch Kabilin (Western Visayas) together with the facilitators and invited guests.

The Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health-Philippines welcomed Batch Kabilin, the newest batch of volunteer youth leaders during the Western Visayas Regional Camp held at Bacolod Pavilion Hotel last April 9-10, 2016. Kabilin is the Cebuano word for heritage and legacy.

Camp Starters. Volunteer Youth Leaders participating in the games "Hammer" and
"How well do you know your co- camper?"

With the theme, “Revolutionizing health promotion through youth participation”, the two-day camp introduced the participants to the organization and prepared them to be part of VYLH-Philippines. A total of 39 youth volunteers were able to qualify for the camp, 16 of which came from Negros Occidental and 23 from Panay Island provinces. Meanwhile, the camp was facilitated by selected volunteer youth leaders (VYLs) from prior batches (Pioneer, I3, K4 and Hiraya) as part of the tradition and conscious effort of the network of preserving its formation and heritage from each generation of VYL to another.

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Pangasinan Students get acquainted with NBS

Public and private colleges and universities in Pangasinan participated in the orientation and seminar on newborn screening (NBS) conducted by the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH)-Philippines at the Nenas Garden Bed and Breakfast, Bonuan, Pangasinan, on March 18, 2016.

Dr. Florencio Dizon, Newborn Screening Center–Central Luzon (NSC-CL) Unit Head, welcomed the some 45 students and department heads from University of Luzon, Lyceum Northwestern University, University of Pangasinan, Pangasinan State University, Colegio de Dagupan, and Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation.

VYLH North and Central Luzon Cluster Representatives, Regional NBS Coordinators, and NBS Continuity Clinic staff facilitated the programs, which included orientation on VYLH, folic acid
supplementation, NBS panel of disorders , Rare Disease Act of the Philippines, and the Expanded
Newborn Screening. ADoctolero

Originally published on the March-April 2016 Issue

Newborn Screening, the Official Newsletter of the
Newborn Screening Reference Center

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VYLH-Philippines Central Visayas welcomes Batch Hiraya

Written by John Paul Oira and Floyd Edrea
Newborn Screening 
May-June 2015 Issue

Reigniting the spirit of youth volunteerism in Central Visayas, the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH)–Philippines, in collaboration with the Department of Health–Regional Office (DOH-RO) 7 and Newborn Screening Center (NSC)–Visayas, organized this year’s regional youth camp to increase awareness on health issues among the youth and to mobilize youth leaders in the region toward health advocacy work.

This year’s newest breed of volunteers took the name Hiraya, from the Filipino word for “vision,” giving emphasis on the theme “Revolutionizing Health Promotion through Youth Participation.” This was the first time for VYLH to adopt a single Filipino word to name their batch. This was also the first time VYLH opened its doors to public applicants, adding to those who were selected by schools or organizations. A total of 20 applicants were accepted into the camp.

The first batch of Hiraya volunteers were inducted at the VYLH-Philippines Central Visayas Regional Camp in Boljoon, Cebu, on May 22-24, 2015. Students and young professionals from Siquijor, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Bohol, as well as new volunteers from Tacloban City, comprise the 53-member strong batch.

Participants were greeted by camp facilitators at the Cebu Club Fort Med Resort. The camp officially opened on May 22 with GTKY (Getting-to-know-you) activities, camp introduction, messages from regional partners, and a video message from VYLH National Adviser Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla.

Dr. Emmelie Pfleider-Silao, NBS Medical Coordinator, through NBS Nurse Coordinator Mr. Ruff Vincent Valdevieso, presented the Department of Health Programs and DOH-RO 7 Updates on Newborn Screening—one of the three major advocacies of VYLH. It was followed by an orientation on the National Newborn Screening Program by Ms. Yugie Caroline Demegillo, NSC-Visayas Program Manager. Anna Leah Millares, NSC-Visayas ENBS Nurse, presented the Expanded Newborn Screening Program. 

A Social Night and Talent Expo was held in the evening to facilitate campers get acquainted with one another. Spicing up the night was an on-the-spot Mr. and Ms. Social Night, with Zecariah Chito Jumawan and Khem Alvarez as camp heartthrobs.

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CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VYLH-Philippines Central Visayas Regional Youth Camp (May 22-24, 2015/Cebu)

Last year, VYLH-Philippines started a series of regional orientation events which catered youth leaders from CAR, NCR, CALABARZON and Central Visayas. 

The 2014 Central Visayas camp was held at Intosan Resort in Danao City. This year, with the support of DOH Central Visayas Regional Office and Newborn Screening Center Visayas, VYLH-Philippines will be holding the second youth camp for the region. 

CALL FOR YOUTH LEADERS. The following are the qualifications and mechanics for application as camp participant. The application form can also be downloaded in this page. 

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VYLH-Philippines introduced in 9th MSS

Written by Ramzy Nuique and Ruffus Adducul

NCR-South Luzon Cluster

Attendees of 9th MSS visiting the VYLH-Philippines Booth

MANILA - The Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH) - Philippines NCR-South Luzon Cluster organized a VYLH Booth during the 9th Medical Students Summit (MSS) held on September 06-07, 2014 at San Beda College, Manila. With the theme: “Catalyzing Social Transformation Through Medicine”, the summit  showcased various organizations and groups that underlines health causes and advocacies, one of which is VYLH-Philippines.The MSS is an annual event spearheaded by the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges - Student Network (APMC-SN).

Brochures regarding the three advocacies of the network namely folic acid awareness, newborn screening awareness, and rare disorders, were given to the attendees of the said event. Sign-up sheets were also provided for medical students who are willing to know more about the organization and are interested to become a part of the network. 

VYLH-Philippines volunteers during the 9th MSS

VYLH’s success stories, advocacies, best practices, and fun stories of volunteers were also shared to curious students through casual talks and a brief sharing. The said event was attended by VYLs who are also medical students. The summit served as a great opportunity for them to rekindle their commitment as a VYLH-Philippines volunteer.

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Editor Joan Barredo (NCR-South Luzon Cluster PIRO)
Photo credit Ramzy Nuique

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VYLH-Philippines celebrates Fifth Founding Anniversary

Written by Aple Dowanie Tadlas

Published Newborn Screening 

July-August 2014 Issue

Anchored on the theme “VYLH High Five: Educate, Empower, Engage and Experience,” the anniversary celebration was set to encourage every VYLH member to be updated with the current trends of being a volunteer youth. Coincidentally, July was also VYLH’s Organizational Orientation Month, a time when all member organizations are requested to reorient their members about VYLH-Philippines. Orientation sessions were held during the anniversary week and all of July.

Activities during the one-week celebration were not confined to the grounds, social media activity was also launched. The VYLH anniversary celebration used the official hashtags #HighFiveVYLH and #VYLH5thAnniversary, which volunteers could use on Facebook and Twitter. Volunteers were also invited to participate in social media campaigns such as High Five! (July 14), VYLH Five-orites (July 15), and IVolunteer (July 16).

Related: #HighFive: A Primer to the VYLH-Philippines 5th Founding Anniversary Celebration

Traditional Pasasalamat. Through the aid of technology, VYLH-Philippines has annually conducted a Skype session in concurrence with a simultaneous nationwide dinner held at key locations in the country. Participanting core groups include NCR, Visayas and Mindanao. 

Street Fashion and Zumba 5inco. The streets of Davao City on July 12, 2014, were host to the Street Fashion Photo Shoot, the kick off activity of the 5th Founding Anniversary of the VYLH-Philippines in Mindanao. Organized by Mindanao young volunteers, the photo shoot showcased a collection of VYLH-Philippines apparel and other souvenir items given throughout the different conferences and congresses since 2009. The rest of the activities were slated on July 14-18.

Together with the Newborn Screening Center–Mindanao, the volunteer youth leaders spearheaded the highlight of the celebration, the Zumba 5inco for Health, a Zumba dance exercise open to all healthy lifestyle enthusiasts in Davao City. The event was held at People’s Park, Davao City, from 5:30 to 6:30 in the morning and was attended by 142 joggers, youth volunteers, and students from University of Southeastern Philippines and Mindanao University. A brief presentation about the VYLH network and its advocacies was also conducted before the program started. A free blood pressure checkup booth was also installed near the activity grounds. Free water and bananas were also given to the participants.

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VYLH-PHL spearheads youth leaders' orientation in Ilocos

Written by Roland Alcantara

Originally Published Newborn Screening 

May-June 2014 Issue

To empower the youth in advocating maternal and child health,the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH)–Philippines North Luzon Cluster in collaboration with the Department of Health-Regional Office (DOH-RO) Ilocos and Newborn Screening Center–Central Luzon, conducted a VYLH Orientation to 50 youth leaders at the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University College of Nursing and Midwifery in La Union, May 16.

Since 2009, VYLH Philippines has widened its network of proactive young leaders to promote infant health, particularly on issues concerning folic acid awareness, newborn screening promotion, and the plight of Filipinos with orphan disorders.The Network promotes its vision through promotional and educational activities in different local communities.

The VYLH Orientation was composed of a series of discussion centering on volunteerism and membership, child and maternal health campaigns, and action planning. Among the invited resource speakers were Roland Alcantara, Project Development Officer of Newborn Screening Center–Central Luzon; Mary Michelle Lewis, DOH-RO Ilocos Nurse Coordinator; Marie Kris Lacuata, DOH-RO Ilocos Nurse Coordinator; and Robin Albinto, VYLH Coordinator for Ilocos and Central Luzon.

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NCR-South welcomes Batch E4 Volunteers

Written by Christine Querubin
NCR-South Luzon Cluster

Fifty eight new members were added to the roster of volunteers in the VYLH-Philippines NCR-South Luzon cluster during the Volunteer Orientation on May 3, 2014 at the Lara Hall, UP Manila. Participants from Cavite, Batangas, Los Baños, Quezon City and Manila joined the whole day gathering featuring talks on volunteerism, newborn screening, folic acid supplementation, and rare diseases. 

Dr. April Berboso, NCR-South Luzon Cluster Adviser, gave a video message welcoming the new batch of members to the organization. This was followed by team building activities and games aimed to acquaint the new members with existing volunteers.

Mr. Jasper Jover, former VYLH-Philippines Mindanao Secretariat gave a lecture on volunteerism and Christine Querubin, NCR-South Cluster Coordinator oriented the participants about the organization and gave an overview of its core advocacies. Separate talks on Newborn Screening, Expanded Newborn Screening, and Folic Acid Supplementation were handled by Ms. Hermes Pascua, Newborn Screening Coordinator for the Center for Health and Development-NCR, and Ms. Marian Cuenca, VYLH- Philippines NCR-South Secretariat, respectively.

The Batch E4 members also worked on their action plans for the year by region, city and school. The organizational orientation and advocacy talks were held in the morning while action planning and commitment rituals were afternoon sessions. Photos and organizational videos over the years havealso been shared to the new members in between sessions.

IHG Genetic Nurse Ms.  Aster Lyn Sur, VYLH-Philippines National Secretariat, lead the symbolic pledge of commitment. Selected representatives from VYLH-Philippines NCR-South Batch E4 also shared their insights as the newest members of the organization during the closing ceremony.

Photo credit: Odellaine Mendoza (Pioneer)

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VYLH-Philippines Central Visayas Camp 2014: Educating Future Health Warriors

Written by Pellan Rhey Capuyan

Foundation University, Negros Oriental, Batch E4

On May 10, 2014, around 10 o’clock in the morning, bright smiles and positive looks of the members of Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health - Philippines (VYLH-Philippines) welcomed my first day in the alluring Intosan Resort in Danao City, Cebu. Long hours of "self- improving" and "educating seminars" as well as the sets of activities for this camp were held in the said resort.

The introduction of officers, orientation of the goal of the organization, and lots of energizers formally commenced the first day. The seminar on the first day was from 1pm to 6pm. It taught us the importance of having newborn screening for every newborn, having enough folic acid supplementation for all especially women, and helping individuals with rare diseases. After which the participants were implicitly taught of camaraderie in a group dinner and the camp's team building activities. The agenda for the day ended at 11 pm through a solemn commitment ritual. The night was perfectly suited for the participants as they internalize the lessons learnt that day.

The cup wasn’t full yet for the craving minds and hearts of the future catalysts-of-change and youth leaders in communities! The second day featured the seminar on action plan development and the talk by the National Program Adviser, Dr. Carmencita Padilla. But of course, the camp was also not all about seminars. Fun spiced up the event too! Different leaders showcased their hidden talents. These were followed by the cultural presentations of leaders across the Central Visayan islands and provinces, such as Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor and Bohol. The second day was concluded by giving sort of “Kalog Awards” to different leaders for individuality or uniqueness as observed by the facilitators during the two- day camp. This was followed by picture taking of course! Definitely, it was a day full of very memorable experiences.

The camp will always be a part of me. I will always look back to it, not the camp per se but the things that I learned and the people behind the continuous success of the organization. To name a few, they are Dr. Carmencita Padilla - National Adviser, VYLH-Philippines; Dr. J Edgar Winston Posecion - Unit Head, NSC- Visayas, VYLH Visayas Cluster Adviser; Dr. Barbra Charina Cavan - Visayas Cluster Adviser; Ms. Lyn Sur, RN - VYLH - Philippines. National Secretariat; and Mr. Emmanual Enriquez, RN - President of VYLH – Philippines.

To the senior volunteers who stayed active despite their hectic schedule, like Kuya Jp, Floyd, Steven, Lime, Ate Jane, Leah, Salima, Karen, Choko and the rest who also served as facilitators during the camp -- thank you! There are so many active volunteer youth leaders whose passion to serve humanitiy keeps on burning. Pardon me for those who were not mentioned. 

Similarly, I have been very grateful that I was able to join with the rest of the youth leaders because of the following who made it possible: my Clinical Instructor Ma'am Ivy Cornelia, Dean Nenita P. Tayko, administrators of Foundation University (FU), and the rest of the supportive individuals.

Indeed, the two-day camp taught me a lot of things. It gave me so much learning and realization. I can say that it renewed and made me more equipped with Skills, Knowledge and Attitude (SKA) of what a true leader should be. I will continue to be an effective leader and will keep the passion burning inside me until such time every individual will take a move in advocating for better health of Filipinos.

________________

Pellan Rhey Capuyan is a Senior Nursing student at Foundation University in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. He is also the current President of the Foundation Universities Association of Student Nurses. He is one of the newest VYLs added to VYLH-Philippines roster after the 2014 Central Visayas Camp.

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Insights from the Central Visayas Regional Camp

Written by Melorens Dumas1 and Gilbert Domingo2
1University of Cebu, Batch E4, 2Silliman University, Batch E4
Updated 29 May 2014

Melorens Dumas

Joining the VYLH two-day camp held last May 10-11, 2014 at Intosan Resort, Danao,Cebu made a great impact in my life as a teenager. I met new people not only from Cebu but from different parts of Central Visayas (Region 7) and the whole Philippines. 

It’s rare for a student to have an advocacy but the network, VYLH-Philippines, never failed to persuade us. I found out that it’s not only for students who are in the medical or scientific field but it’s for everyone, every individual, who is after for a healthier society. I am really into joining different leadership seminars, both  local or national, but the VYLH-Philippines' Camp is one of the best leadership conferences that I’ve ever joined in. This one’s unusual, it’s really new! My heart was overwhelmed in knowing the fact that I’m of of the luckiest youth who was able to be a part of the network’s advocacy. 

The First day was of course the so called “Awkward Day”, although the other groups of delegates were already intact. Still, it was productive! The lecture of the advocacies filled our interested minds with more awareness about what’s happening around us. How in that very moment, a teenaage mother is giving birth. And how in that very minute, a dreadful defects can destroy a newborn’s life - if not prevented or detected.

We were blessed enough to have the chance of listening from very excellent speakers. Later that evening, the Team Building Activity tested our values and attitudes towards dealing with different people and situations. The activity strengthened our relationship and opened our minds to the reality that we are a part of this because we are instruments for change. 

The second and last day of the camp is the happiest yet the saddest part. Seeing the National Program Adviser, Dr. Carmencita "Tita Menchit" Padilla, in person really increased our motivation. I believe she was able to inspire everyone. The Talent Presentation and the Kalog Awards made the most impact on that day's activity. It was full of surprises and laughter. Indeed, it was remarkable. 

 

Words can’t express on how thankful I am to be a part of the VYLH-Philippines family. They only made me believe in one thing: in order for us to successfully fulfill our life on Earth, we should be a part of history, and the best way to make history is to help others and make them happy. 

Thank you, VYLH-Philippines! Let’s do this!

***

Gilbert Domingo

The VYLH-Philippines Central Visayas Camp was very memorable. I think it is a rare opportunity to attend an interesting, challenging and exciting youth leaders’ camp.

On our way to Danao, I thought about the many things that could happen in the camp – the new people I would meet, new knowledge that I would obtain, new family that I would value, and all the new things that would make my life different from what I am having right now. At first, I felt a bit awkward even with my co-delegates from Negros Oriental. I feared then that I would be out of place during the camp. But as the camp began, I met different kinds of people from various parts of the region. And as I got to know a bit of their personalities, I figured out how we shared similar characteristics – the traits of being a leader.  That idea made me change my mind about being a fish out of the water.  It made me feel that I am in the right group of people, and that I belong here.

Looking at the perspective of the participants, I could say that the Central Visayas Camp was very successful because all of my fellow youth leaders enjoyed the event. After seeing smiles on their faces on our way home, I am pretty sure that they learned a lot from the camp. Other than the details of the network’s advocacies, our professional lecturers showed us that the field you chose in life doesn’t matter in the advocacy. This made me realize that for as long as anyone has the heart of a volunteer, anyone can make a difference in our country.

To sum it up, I just want to say that I enjoyed the camp so much and I'm looking forward to the next. Thank you, VYLH-Philippines.

_______________________

Melorens Dumas is the President of the Nursing Student Body Organization (NSBO) of the University of Cebu-Banilad Campus. Gilbert Domingo is an incoming Third Year BS Accountancy student at Silliman University. He was the President of the Duscian Sillimanites for AY 2013-2014. At present, he is the College Representative to the SU University Student Council.

Both of them belong to the latest batch of VYLH-Philippines volunteers. Batch E4 stands for Educate, Empower, Engage, and Experience. 

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A leap forward: VYLH-Philippines ventures in CAR

Written by Jonah Chaangan

Baguio City, Batch E4

Baguio and Benguet universities sent their delegates for the Baguio City leg of the VYLH-Philippines
North Luzon Cluster Orientation CARavan.

Ready to champion awareness and empowerment, the Volunteer Youth Leader for Health (VYLH)-Philippines North Luzon Cluster recently launched its Youth Leaders’ Orientation Caravan in the Cordillera Administrative Region. After visiting Abra, Benguet, and Apayao early this year, the group still looks forward to continuing the trail to the rest of the region.  

Youth Leaders' Orientation held in Luna, Apayao

The orientation caravan organized by CAR's Center for Health Development (DOH CHD-CAR) aims to increase the participation of the region in VYLH Philippines’s proactive campaign for maternal and child health. A total of 118 youth leaders representing Abra, Benguet, and Apayao joined hands to look into issues concerning Folic Acid Awareness, Newborn Screening, and Orphan Disorders and pledged to be part of the VYLH-Philippines family. Other than being a milestone in creating discourse on VYLH’s core advocacies, the orientation served as an avenue to encourage youth participants to channel their effort in worthwhile causes.

Patterned from previous experiences, the orientation comprised a series of discussions on volunteerism and VYLH membership, child and maternal health campaigns, and action planning. Lectures were coupled with interactive activities ensuring interactions among the participants. Necessary information and insights regarding VYLH-Philippines and its advocacies were provided by the invited speakers namely Aster Lynn Sur, RN of the Institute of Human Genetics-National Institutes of Health (IHG-NIH), UP Manila; Francia Bartolata, Ryan Pascual, Rufus Adducul, and Edbert Jasper Jover, RN of VYLH-Philippines NCR-South Luzon; and VYLH-Philippines North Luzon Cluster Secretariat Roland Alcantara, RN of Newborn Screening Center – Central Luzon (NSC-CL). Baguio City youth leaders Crissa Sikki (Saint Louis University), Safrone Dicam (Benguet State University), Jonah Chaangan (UP Baguio), Keith Dakimas, and Sheema (University of Baguio) assisted the group.

Youth Leaders Orientation held in Bangued, Abra

Youth leaders were also asked to develop their own action plans for their respective schools and communities.  This planning session addresses the question “what can I do to advocate as a youth?” Thorough review and consolidation of these plans are still ongoing, as these plans can contribute to the overall health campaign in the region, and the country.

The advocacy trail started in Abra last March 31, 2014, followed by a recent visit in Baguio City and Apayao on April 14 and 22 respectively. Over 46 youth participants were oriented in Abra, 26 in Baguio, and 46 in Apayao. They will be listed as affiliated volunteer youth leaders (VYLs) along with 19 Baguio City student leaders who joined VYLH-Philippines in October 2013.

The recent success of the caravan was made possible through the collaboration of the DOH CHD-CAR, IHG-NIH, NSC-Central Luzon, VYLH-Philippines NCR-South Luzon volunteers, and Baguio City Youth leaders. Regional NBS Program Manager Dr. Virginia Narcisio and NBS Nurse Coordinator Joyce Rillorta represented CHD-CAR.

Acknowledgements VYLH-Philippines would like to thank the Center for Health Development - CAR, the Provincial Capitol of Abra, and the Municipality of Luna, Apayao for hosting the orientation of new volunteer youth leaders. Agyamanak unay! 

_________________

Mr. Jonah Chaangan is a senior BA Communication student at the University of the Philippines Baguio. He joined the network in April 2014 and was listed as member of the batch E4 (Educate, Empower, Engage, Experience). 

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