City Health Office of Zamboanga

The City Health Office of Zamboanga City, under the leadership of City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite, successfully concluded the 2026 Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Level Plan Implementation (MELLPIE-Pro) in collaboration with the City Nutrition Evaluation Team.

The evaluation was spearheaded by the City Nutrition Committee and involved representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), City Planning and Development Office, City Budget Office, City Agriculture Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and West Metro Medical Center.

Barangays Mampang (Central District), Calarian (West Coast District), and Cabaluay (East Coast District) underwent a comprehensive assessment focusing on the performance and functionality of the Barangay Nutrition Action Officer (BNAO), Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS), and Barangay Nutrition Committee (BNC). The evaluation measured compliance with nutrition programs, governance standards, and the effectiveness of community-based nutrition initiatives.

Using the MELLPIE-Pro tool, evaluators systematically reviewed local nutrition plans and programs to ensure alignment with regional and national nutrition goals, while promoting accountability and excellence in service delivery.

Following the rigorous evaluation, Mila Castillo of Barangay Cabaluay was proclaimed the 2026 Zamboanga City Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS) with 1st Runner-Up: Jocelyn Fernandez, Brgy. Mampang, and 2nd Runner-Up: Teresita W. Solis from Brgy. Calarian.

The achievement reflects the strong support and commitment of the Barangay Nutrition Committee led by Barangay Captain Hon. Lester Siason, the Barangay Council, Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC), Barangay Health Workers, and Barangay Midwife Verna Balasa Alagasi.

The City Health Office commended all participating barangays and nutrition workers for their dedication to improving the nutritional status and overall health of Zamboangueños, reaffirming the city's commitment to building healthier and more resilient communities. (Photo credits: Eric Bangkal)

The Zamboanga City Multisectoral AIDS Council, through the City Health Office, spearheaded the commemoration of this year’s International AIDS Candlelight Memorial held on May 29, 2026, at Plaza Pershing, this city.

The program formally opened with an invocation rendered by DSWD beneficiaries, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the Zamboanga Hermosa Hymn.

Vice Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco served as the Guest of Honor representing Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso and delivered an inspirational message emphasizing unity, compassion, and continued support for persons living with HIV.

Meanwhile, Department of Health Center for Health Development Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Director Dr. Lenny Joy Rivera delivered her message of support for the advocacy against HIV and AIDS.

One of the highlights of the event was the heartfelt testimonial of a person living with HIV, followed by the symbolic lighting of candles in remembrance of lives lost and in solidarity with those affected by HIV and AIDS. The ceremony was further highlighted by a special performance from guest performer Ms. Thwienamy Campos.

The event concluded with a closing remarks from City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite, who expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, partner agencies, and community-based organizations for their unwavering support in promoting awareness, compassion, and inclusivity.

The activity gathered city officials, various stakeholders and community-based organizations who united in support of this year’s International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, reaffirming the city’s commitment to strengthening HIV awareness, prevention, and stigma-free communities.

The City Health Office (CHO) conducted its Monthly Conference on May 29, 2026, bringing together CHO personnel for updates, discussions, and strengthening of health programs and services.

The activity commenced with a Holy Mass celebrated to give thanks and seek guidance for the continued delivery of quality healthcare services to the community. After the religious observance, the program proper followed with presentations, updates, and discussions on various health concerns and initiatives.

One of the major points discussed during the conference was the implementation and utilization of the PhilHealth YAKAP Program. The program aims to provide accessible healthcare assistance and support to patients through expanded PhilHealth benefits and services aligned with the Universal Health Care Program.

City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite emphasized the importance of proper coordination and information dissemination to ensure that more Zamboangueños will benefit from the PhilHealth YAKAP and other healthcare programs of the government.

The monthly conference also served as a venue for personnel to address operational concerns, share accomplishments, and strengthen teamwork in delivering efficient and responsive public health services.

The City Health Office convened a meeting of all medical doctors under the leadership of City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite.

Held at the City Health Office mini conference room, the meeting focused on important updates and current developments in the implementation of the PhilHealth YAKAP and GAMOT Program in the city.

Dr. Miravite also encouraged all medical doctors to continue supporting the effective implementation of the program by ensuring proper coordination, patient guidance, and efficient delivery of healthcare services in their respective health facilities.

The City Health Office remains committed to providing accessible, quality, and responsive healthcare programs for all constituents through strengthened collaboration and continuous health service improvements.

The PhilHealth Regional Office IX Team headed by Dr. Rossana Paraguya officially launched the PhilHealth Guaranteed Accessible Medication Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) Program at the Zamboanga City Health Office on May 28, 2026, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC) in the region.

The program aims to provide greater access to essential medicines for qualified PhilHealth members through accredited healthcare institutions and partner drugstores. Under the PhilHealth Yaman ng kalusugan Program (YAKAP) and Guaranteed Accessible Medication Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) Programs, beneficiaries may avail of medicine assistance amounting to as much as ₱20,000 annually.

According to Zamboanga City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite, the initiative will significantly benefit patients and families who struggle to afford maintenance medications and treatment expenses.

Present during the event was Department of Health Regional Office IX Director Dr. Lenny Joy Johnson-Rivera, who expressed full support for the program and emphasized the importance of strengthening healthcare access in communities.

The launching highlighted the collaborative efforts of PhilHealth, the Department of Health, and local government units in ensuring that quality healthcare services and affordable medicines become more accessible to every Filipino through the Universal Health Care Program.

Savores de Zamboanga, a weekend food hub that officially opens today, May 22, 2026, is a program initiated by the City Government of Zamboanga under the leadership of City Mayor Captain Khymer Adan Olaso.

The Savores de Zamboanga food hub features 22 food stalls offering a variety of local delicacies, street food favorites, and culinary specialties that showcase the rich flavors and vibrant food culture of the city.

Zamboangueños are invited to visit and enjoy the weekend food hub as it opens its doors to the public, providing a venue for food lovers, families, and friends to gather and experience the unique taste of Zamboanga.

The last day of the OPERATION TULI was successfully held today, May 22, 2026, at the CHO Conference Room, where a total of 52 eligible boys availed of the free circumcision services.

The City Health Office, headed by Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite, expresses its sincere appreciation to all medical doctors, nurses, and health volunteers for their unwavering support, dedication, and commitment throughout the entire duration of the Operation Tuli program.

Their collective efforts contributed greatly to the successful delivery of healthcare services to the community.

Personnel of the City Health Office participated in the celebration of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) 2026 held today, May 22, 2026 at Grand Astoria Hotel.

The activity gathered various stakeholders and advocates in promoting equality, inclusion, and respect for diversity while strengthening awareness on the rights and welfare of the LGBTQIA+ community.