DOH-Davao Hosts Kidney Health Awareness Event at SM City Davao

On June 20, 2025, the Department of Health-Davao Region (DOH-Davao) hosted a significant community event at SM City Davao, aimed at raising awareness about kidney health as part of the National Kidney Month celebration. The event, themed "Buhay ay Ipaglaban, Bato ay Alagaan," drew over 400 attendees and was organized in collaboration with the Philippine Society of Nephrology and the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) Section of Nephrology.

Dr. Raquel Montejo, chief of the Local Health Support Division at DOH-Davao, emphasized the event's importance, stating, "Today's event brings together health professionals, community members, advocates, and stakeholders with the common purpose to raise awareness, educate the public, and empower one another in the fight against kidney disease." This initiative underscores the growing recognition of kidney health as a public health priority in the Philippines, where chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasingly prevalent.

Participants of the event were offered several activities, including free health screenings, educational talks by healthcare professionals on kidney disease prevention, and a talent showcase. One participant, Bem Bariñan, who has been a dialysis patient for over a decade, shared her positive experience: "I’ve attended this several times. It’s informative and fun because you get to see other patients too." Such testimonials reflect the community's engagement and the event's success in providing valuable health information.

PhilHealth representatives were also present, discussing the benefits available for dialysis patients, including the Z Benefits Package, which aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with dialysis treatment. The event highlighted critical issues surrounding kidney health, including the importance of early detection, lifestyle improvements, and access to quality healthcare services.

As chronic kidney disease remains a significant health concern in the Philippines, events like this play a crucial role in educating the public and encouraging proactive health management. According to the latest report from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), approximately 3.1 million Filipinos are affected by kidney-related ailments, underscoring the need for ongoing community education and support initiatives.

In conclusion, the DOH-Davao's kidney health awareness program serves not only as an informative gathering but also as a call to action for individuals to prioritize kidney health and seek early medical intervention when necessary. The collaborative efforts from various health organizations and community stakeholders signify a united front in combating kidney disease in the region.