The DA-BAFS commenced the Civil Servants’ Health and Wellness Month and the National Nutrition Month by facilitating a “Health & Wellness Caravan” on July 8-9, 2025. This impactful two-day event, which was open to all, truly highlighted DA-BAFS’ deep dedication to fostering the holistic well-being of both its valued personnel and the wider government community. 

 

In a remarkable collaboration with the Quezon City Health Department, and with the invaluable support of Honorable Mayor Ma. Josefina G. Belmonte and Honorable Vice-Mayor Gian G. Sotto, the caravan offered a comprehensive array of free medical services. Participants readily availed themselves of complementary medical consultations, including risk assessments and nutritional advice through the use of a food-plate model (Pinggang Pinoy), random and fasting blood sugar tests, cholesterol tests, and family planning. Alongside these services, the Quezon City Health Department also conducted awareness seminars on clinical breast examinations for both men and women, and physical health, led by Dr. Arnold Monteiro, Medical Officer III, Project 6 Health Center, which focused on hypertension and diabetes. 

 

Complementing the list of medical services, the caravan proudly hosted key exhibitors, including Pag-IBIG and PhilHealth, offering its frontline services, member records updating, and an overall information drive regarding its services. Further enhancing the holistic experience, attendees were treated to complimentary haircuts, facial treatments, and massages, alongside valuable physical wellness assessments from Anytime Fitness. 

 

A significant highlight was the insightful Seminar on Mental Health expertly led by Dr. Mechael Angelo Marasigan. This timely session highlighted the Quezon City government’s 24/7 mental health helpline, helpline 122, and provided vital strategies for fostering mental well-being, recognizing its direct link to overall productivity and resilience. 

 

As DA-BAFS looks forward to expanding its health and wellness programs in the coming year, the call for broader participation from other government agencies in the vicinity resonates deeply. Investing in our public servants’ health and well-being is a concern that goes beyond departments; it is a shared responsibility that underpins the strength, resilience, and effectiveness of our entire public service. Through cooperation in this effort, we stand to build a healthier, more vibrant, and ultimately more productive government workforce for all Filipinos.