THE Department of Health – Ilocos Region together with the local government of Lidlidda, Ilocos Sur successfully conducted the Indigenous Peoples (IP) Day and Health Summit on October 3, 2025 reaffirming its commitment to inclusive and culturally-sensitive healthcare for all and empowering IP communities through inclusive health programs.
The summit gathered over 613 participants, including local IP leaders, barangay health workers, municipal health officers, and representatives from partner national agencies and NGOs.
It served as a platform to discuss public health issues affecting indigenous communities and to ensure that programs and services are aligned with the unique cultural contexts and needs of IPs in the region.
DOH Ilocos Sur Provincial Health Team Leader (PHTL) Engr. John C. Foz, who delivered Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco’s message, emphasized the importance of health equity and the inclusion of indigenous voices in public health planning.
“The health of our Indigenous Peoples is a national concern. We are here to listen, to learn, and to act together to break barriers and build trust, so that no one is left behind,” he stated.
During the event, medical consultations, dental services, TB screening and cervical cancer screening were conducted. Oral health kits for attendees, nutri box for pregnant mothers, hygiene kits and Gerry cans for MDRRMO and emergency kits were turned over to 11 Barangays Indigenous People Mandatory representatives (IPMRs).
Mayor Sherwin P. Tomas expressed his gratitude for the DOH’s outreach to the upland communities, highlighting that access to healthcare remains a challenge for geographically isolated areas. “Bringing the summit here in Lidlidda is more than symbolic — it shows that our indigenous communities’ matter,” he emphasized.
DOH Ilocos Sur Development Management Officer IV Danny G. Javier described the event as an initiative that forms part of the DOH Ilocos Region’s commitment to the “Kalusugan at Kapakanan ng Katutubo” (4Ks) Program, which aims to improve health service delivery and outcomes for Indigenous Peoples.
He also encouraged all LGUs and stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and continue localized efforts to ensure that health services are responsive, accessible, and inclusive.
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