PGLU boosts newborn screening capacity across La Union

By Balaoan and Naguilian District Hospital | Photos by BLDH and NDH | October 20, 2026

The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU), through the Provincial Health Office (PHO), and in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH) Ilocos Center for Health Development, held a two-part Newborn Screening (NBS) Training for healthcare professionals. The first phase ran from September 29 to 30, 2026, at J&V Hotel in San Fernando City, followed by a second phase in October 2026 at the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC).

The program included expert-led sessions on the Philippine Newborn Screening Program, the list of screened disorders, Republic Act 9288, facility protocols, and administrative processes from the Newborn Screening Center - Northern Luzon (NSC-NL). Participants also completed a clinical practicum, where they conducted Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) outreach, performed heel-pricks on newborns, and practiced proper specimen collection and handling under supervision.

To extend the reach, the Naguilian District Hospital (NDH) held an educational lecture on NBS on October 5, 2026, while the Balaoan District Hospital (BLDH) tackled both NBS and Expanded Newborn Screening (ENBS) on October 7, 2026, at its Outpatient Department (OPD). The sessions raised awareness among patients and parents on how timely screening, proper follow-up and early intervention can detect congenital conditions and support healthy growth.