TBpeople Philippines had the distinct privilege of meeting with key health officials in Parañaque City. The meeting, held with Dr. Reginald Santos, the City’s CHO Technical Services and Health Division officer, alongside Dr. Sheryl Ann Presentacion Guray, Dr. Maria Radelma Briones, and NTP Nurses Coordinators Mary Melanie Cruz and Elinor Gallo, was essential in advancing TB advocacy and reinforcing efforts to eradicate the disease within the community.

A central theme of the discussion was the establishment of City Associations through the innovative TBpeople Philippines Discipleship Program. This initiative is specifically designed to empower TB survivors to become advocates within their own communities. By leveraging their personal experiences with TB, these survivor advocates are uniquely positioned to offer guidance and support to those currently battling the disease. Their involvement is important in bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients, ensuring that interventions are not only medically effective but also emotionally supportive and accessible.

This collaboration with Parañaque City’s health leaders signifies a major step forward in the shared mission to create a TB-free city. TBpeople Philippines aims to build a stronger, more resilient community that is well-equipped to tackle TB head-on. The meeting underscored the importance of partnership, and the collective will to drive change, highlighting that the path to a TB-free Parañaque is one that requires the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders.

The emphasis will remain on strengthening these partnerships and expanding the reach of the City Associations through the innovative TBpeople Phiippines Discipleship Program. Together, with the dedication of city health officials and the empowering voice of survivor advocates, we are confident that a TB-free Parañaque is within reach. This collaborative effort not only enhances the effectiveness of TB interventions but also builds a community where support, empathy, and shared experience are at the forefront of healthcare.