By William Agda
The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte through its Rural Health Unit, is actively exploring a partnership with Roots of Health to expand its Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Program. This initiative comes as the community faces emerging health challenges, particularly in the context of its growing tourism-based economy.
Roots of Health, known in the Philippines as “Ugat ng Kalusugan,” is an internationally recognized non-governmental organization specializing in SRHR. With a proven track record in Palawan, the organization has provided comprehensive reproductive health education and services to young people and women of reproductive age. Their advocacy includes addressing critical issues such as unplanned pregnancies, especially among teenagers, maternal mortality, and the rising incidence of HIV.
Del Carmen’s interest in partnering with Roots of Health is rooted in the organization’s expertise in working with communities in tourism-driven regions. The potential collaboration aims to introduce innovative reproductive health education campaigns and expand access to essential services. Through this initiative, Del Carmen seeks to strengthen its health advocacy efforts and mitigate the health threats affecting its residents.