The Commission on Population and Development Region III is set to conduct a culminating activity for the Men’s Health Month with the theme: “Pars, Kalusugan mo Mahalaga sa Pamilya mo!”, in collaboration with partners including DOH Central Luzon Center for Health and Development, USAID Reach Health, DKT Philippines, and the Local Government Unit of Mabalacat City.
Celebrating Men’s Health Month is indispensable in encouraging men to take responsibility for their health and well-being. It creates awareness of the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of men’s health issues, reduces the stigma surrounding men’s health, promotes open dialogue, and empowers men to make informed decisions about their health.
In a statement, POPCOM III Regional Director Lourdes Nacionales said that this year’s celebration aims to intensify advocacy to improve men’s health-seeking behavior and practice of healthy lifestyle, men’s involvement in reproductive health and family planning, and men’s understanding of gender equality. “It also highlights the important role of men as responsible and productive members of society,” she said.
The culminating activity, which will be held on June 29, 2023, at the Royce Hotel in Clark, will include a discussion on Kalalakihang Tapat sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya (KATROPA) focusing on gender and development, delivery of health information, counseling, and service delivery such as HIV/AIDS testing, Tuberculosis testing, and Family Planning.
One of the major highlights as well of the said activity is the SALIN AWIT Competition, where different LGUs, DOH Hospitals, and selected health facilities in Central Luzon will compete to deliver the best song-composition with health messages on improving men’s seeking behavior and practice of healthy lifestyle.
According to DOH Region III, most men’s health issues are preventable; however, misconceptions, lack of awareness, and fear influence the behavior and decision-making of men in accessing and utilizing available health services.
With this, RD Nacionales encourages all men to make healthier choices. “Eat foods that are good for you, stay physically active, practice self-care, eliminate or limit alcohol and cigarette consumption, avoid stress, and seek medical advice if necessary to prevent the development of various diseases,” she said.
RD Nacionales further added that the activities for the MHM provide a considerable opportunity to educate, encourage, and inspire men to take control of their health and enhance their relationships with their children and partners. She also encourages the public to help positively impact the lives of men in their communities and create a proactive approach to the holistic health and well-being of men.