Testimony by: Ma. Theresa A. Bernales, RN II

4Ps Focal on Health, Murcia Health Center

MURCIA, Negros Occidental – For the past 13 years, I have been privileged to serve as a Registered Nurse II and 4Ps Focal on Health, passionately working to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their well-being. I am dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for policies that promote equitable access to healthcare for all, guided by the belief that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right.

Through my partnership with the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), I have engaged in diverse activities to address health issues and concerns within the community. Serving the 4Ps households is immensely rewarding, as it allows me to create meaningful connections and address critical health needs.

During Family Development Sessions (FDS), I have had the opportunity to share key health topics, including, health education and promotion; maternal and child health; mental health awareness in health and sanitation; disease prevention and control, and environmental health services. These are all addressing health disparities, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the poor, the elderly, and persons with special needs.

Over the years, my involvement in various 4Ps activities such as attending the Municipal Convergence Meetings (MCC), Partnership Forums, and Municipal Action Plan deliberations has enabled us to identify and address gaps in health services based on the Social Welfare and Development Indicators (SWDI) results. These collaborative efforts have led to significant achievements in 2024, including providing access to basic health services among 217 4Ps households, organizing medical missions in 15 barangays, disseminating health information to 616 households without sanitary toilets, promoting campaigns on climate change and solid waste management and ensuring compliance with health requirements such as vaccinations, immunizations, and prenatal services.

As a health advocate, I firmly believe that empowering the 4Ps beneficiaries through proper orientation, awareness, and education fosters improved physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. By equipping these beneficiaries with the knowledge and skills for healthy living, we can help them develop values and attitudes that lead to a sustainable and resilient lifestyle.

Together, we can build a healthier society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.

(Submitted by ML, Grace Barsabal of Murcia MOO, Negros POO1)