Breathing Easier: The CDO Crusade Against Whooping Cough

CREDIT: PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY 

In the heart of Cagayan de Oro City, a renewed vigour in public health is emerging as local officials rally to combat the pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, threat among the youngest residents. The concerted effort underscores a commitment to safeguarding public health through proactive vaccination initiatives. As we delve into the city's strategic plan to curb this preventable yet potentially fatal disease, it's clear that community health is the paramount concern for the City Council and local health authorities.

Pertussis, with its hallmark whooping sound during coughing fits, poses a significant risk to infants and young children, leading to severe complications and, tragically, fatalities in some cases. The bacterium Bordetella pertussis is the perpetrator behind this ailment, which spreads through respiratory droplets. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the local government of Cagayan de Oro City has taken decisive steps to fortify its defenses against this infectious scourge.

2nd District Councilor Maria Lourdes Gaane, in a recent briefing, articulated the local government’s strategy. Bolstered by her medical expertise, Gaane emphasized the vital role of vaccinations in pertussis prevention. The alliance between Mayor Rolando Uy and the City Council's health committee aims to ensure no child in the city falls prey to the claws of pertussis.

At the forefront of this initiative is the push to distribute pentavalent vaccines across the city’s 80 barangays. Dr. Rachel Dilla, the City Health Office chief, announced the readiness of 2,000 vials of the pertussis vaccine. This deployment plan is not just about numbers; it's a lifeline stretching into every corner of the community, ensuring comprehensive coverage and protection for the most vulnerable.

The value of the pentavalent vaccine cannot be overstated. Costing PHP12,000 per vial, it serves as a bulwark against five diseases, including pertussis. This multi-pronged defense is an efficient approach to child immunization, encapsulating the city's commitment to cost-effective healthcare solutions that do not compromise on efficacy.

Community involvement is pivotal in the success of this vaccination campaign. The local government unit (LGU) of Cagayan de Oro City, in advocating for widespread vaccine uptake, underscores the "free and must be availed of" nature of this program. This clarion call for participation is a testament to the power of collective action in public health endeavors.

The journey towards a pertussis-free Cagayan de Oro City is laden with challenges, including logistical hurdles and the ever-present specter of vaccine hesitancy. However, the meticulously planned rollout, coupled with public education initiatives, aims to address these barriers head-on.

The involvement of medical professionals like Gaane in the planning and execution phases lends credibility and efficacy to the vaccination campaign. Their insights into disease patterns and vaccine logistics are instrumental in crafting a responsive and flexible strategy that can adapt to evolving public health dynamics.

Cagayan de Oro City’s proactive stance against pertussis serves as a beacon for other municipalities grappling with similar public health challenges. It exemplifies how localized strategies, backed by scientific insight and community involvement, can yield significant dividends in the quest for disease eradication.

As Cagayan de Oro City readies its additional pertussis vaccines for distribution, it stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites in the face of a public health threat. Through strategic planning, robust partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of its youngest citizens, the city is poised to turn the tide against whooping cough. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with each vaccine administered, Cagayan de Oro City moves closer to a future where the specter of pertussis is but a distant memory.

Steering Towards Change: Revamping Taxi Services in Cagayan de Oro City

CREDIT: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

In a bid to enhance the quality of taxi services in Cagayan de Oro City, a groundbreaking initiative has been set into motion. This progressive movement is focused on issuing new ID cards to taxi drivers and conducting 'refresher seminars' to polish their skills and improve their contributions to the riding public. The city's taxi drivers are on the verge of a substantial transformation that promises to elevate their roles from mere service providers to ambassadors of customer service excellence.

This four-point initiative was launched following a detailed letter sent by the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB-10) to the 20th City Council's public utilities committee, presided over by Councilor Romeo Calizo. The letter, which was read out during a session by Councilor Malvern Esparcia, was a response to the committee's resolution calling for stricter enforcement of taxi operator requirements.

The LTFRB memorandum is a proactive measure to mitigate the issue of errant taxi drivers. This push towards transparency follows complaints received from taxi passengers regarding the abusive behavior of certain taxi drivers. As Councilor Esparcia aptly pointed out, the actions of a few can tarnish the reputation of the many dedicated and professional taxi drivers who serve the city's public.

The process of issuing new ID cards is a direct step towards ensuring accountability. These ID cards will prominently display the driver's name, photo, and operator information as mandated under the LTFRB's Memorandum Circular 2014-020.

Education plays a crucial role in this transformative journey. Taxi drivers will be required to attend 'refresher academy drivers seminars' aimed at reminding them of the LTFRB-10 rules, specifically the provisions of Memorandum Circular 2014-020. This is a step towards ensuring that every driver is well-versed in the rules and regulations that govern their profession.

In addition to this, the LTFRB-10 has joined forces with taxi operators and the Department of Tourism-10 to conduct seminars focused on improving customer service and satisfaction. The purpose of these seminars is to guide drivers towards providing a service that not only meets but exceeds passenger expectations.

The initiative also addresses the issue of illegal tri-cabs, or bao-baos, which have been detrimentally impacting the livelihood of taxi operators in the city. Director Matuan of Regional LTFRB-10 stated that they are calling for City Hall to intervene and curb these unlawful operations.

The LTFRB-10 has repeatedly voiced its opposition against the commercial operation of bao-bao units in Cagayan de Oro City during council meetings. Councilor Calizo reiterated that these bao-baos should not be allowed to ply national highways, thus ensuring a safer and more organized transportation system.

This four-point initiative is a milestone in the journey towards improving taxi services in Cagayan de Oro City. It is a beacon of hope for taxi drivers and a promise of an enhanced commuting experience for the riding public. This initiative is not just about changing the face of taxi services; it is about reinventing the wheel, one driver at a time. With continued diligence and commitment, the city of Cagayan de Oro is steering towards a future where every ride is a pleasant journey.

Unveiling Pathways to Progress: The Eureka Road Opening in Gingoog City

CREDIT: Misamis Oriental Provincial Information Office 

PHOTO CREDIT: Governor Peter “Sr. Pedro Unabia

In a significant stride towards enhancing mobility and accessibility, Barangay Eureka in Gingoog City marked a monumental occasion with the successful completion and turn-over of a crucial road opening project at Sitio Kulipapa. In an event graced by Governor Peter “Sr. Pedro Unabia, the unveiling of the 2.6-kilometre stretch symbolizes more than just a route; it represents the dawn of newfound opportunities for the local community. It is noteworthy how the residents, who have yearned for this development for 23 long years, expressed their profound gratitude at the ceremony.

This project underlines a collective dream transformed into reality, a testament to the power of unity and determination. Spearheaded by the 52nd Engineering Brigade of the Philippine Army, the project's swift completion in merely 52 days is a marvel of efficiency and dedication. The role of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), alongside the crucial support from both the Provincial Government and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Gingoog City, has been pivotal in this achievement.

During this landmark event, the community took a definitive stance by signing a declaration that labels terrorist groups CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non-grata. With this bold move, Barangay Eureka solidifies its stand against any entities that threaten the peace and development of their area. This declaration is much more than a formality; it’s a declaration of the community's collective will to pursue growth and prosperity, unhindered by forces of disruption.

The road opening in Barangay Eureka is envisioned as a catalyst for economic and social development within the area. By facilitating easier access and transportation, the newly opened road is set to enhance trade, mobility, and communication for the residents, thus propelling the barangay towards heightened progress and prosperity.

This initiative serves as a beacon for future infrastructural projects within the region. The upcoming road opening project in Membakiki, Sitio Sangalan, Gingoog City, which spans an impressive 8.1 kilometers, is already generating buzz. With the continued cooperation among the local government, provincial authorities, and the Philippine Army, the future looks bright for Gingoog City’s infrastructural landscape.

The ceremony witnessed a convergence of key figures whose commitment to the project was paramount. Among them were Gingoog City Mayor Erick Cañosa, 58th IB Commanding Officer LTC Christian Uy, and 52nd Engineer Brigade BGEN Francis Marlon Wong. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit that brought the project to fruition.

Governor Peter “Sr. Pedro Unabia’s PAGLAUM Development Agenda identifies the mobilization of resources through equitable sharing as a key pillar. The successful completion of the road opening in Barangay Eureka is a testament to this vision, showcasing how strategic mobilization and allocation of resources can significantly uplift communities.

With the road now open, Barangay Eureka stands on the cusp of a socio-economic transformation. The ease of transport means reduced costs and time for goods and people movement, directly benefiting local businesses and the quality of life of the residents. This development also opens avenues for tourism and external investments, promising a vibrant future for the community.

As we celebrate this milestone, it is imperative to envision and implement measures for the sustainable maintenance and use of this infrastructural development. Sustainable development entails not just the construction of roads but also ensuring that these infrastructures continue to serve the community effectively, fostering growth and development for years to come.

As Barangay Eureka embarks on this new chapter, the road opening stands as a prologue to the tale of progress and development envisioned for Gingoog City. It underscores the potency of collaborative governance, community involvement, and strategic planning in overcoming challenges and transforming dreams into tangible realities.

The successful road opening in Barangay Eureka, Gingoog City, is a remarkable achievement that resonates with the ethos of progress and collaboration. It marks the beginning of a journey towards sustainable development, economic growth, and communal prosperity. As we look towards the future, this project stands as a beacon of hope, a model of development that can be replicated in other areas, paving the way towards a brighter and more prosperous horizon for all.