A proposed ordinance institutionalizing a free annual preventive health screening and early disease detection program for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) has taken its first legislative step after receiving approval on First Reading before the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod City, Councilor Caesar Distrito said Friday, June 26.
The measure was principally authored by Distrito, with Councilors Celia Flor, Dindo Ramos, and Al Victor Espino as co-authors.
The proposed “Bacolod Preventive Health Screening and Early Disease Detection Program for Senior Citizens and PWDs Ordinance of 2026” seeks to establish a comprehensive preventive healthcare program under the City Health Office (CHO), providing qualified beneficiaries with free annual health screening services aimed at detecting diseases early and improving long-term health outcomes, Distrito said.
If enacted, the ordinance will entitle qualified senior citizens and PWDs to annual preventive health screening, including blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, cholesterol screening, body mass index (BMI) assessment, vision and hearing screening, medical consultation, cardiovascular and kidney disease assessment, cancer risk screening referrals, mental health and wellness assessment when feasible, and other preventive laboratory examinations as may be determined by the City Health Office, he said.
Recognizing that many elderly residents and persons with disabilities are unable to undergo regular medical check-ups because of financial constraints, mobility limitations, or lack of access to healthcare facilities, the proposed ordinance also provides for barangay-based screening activities, mobile medical clinics, community medical missions, and, whenever practicable, home-based health screening for bedridden beneficiaries, he added.
To ensure continuity of care, the measure establishes a referral and health navigation system that will connect patients requiring further evaluation or treatment with government hospitals, PhilHealth Konsulta providers, rehabilitation services, specialists, and other available medical assistance programs.
To encourage greater public participation, the proposed ordinance directs the City Health Office, the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA), the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), the City Information Office, and all 61 barangays to undertake sustained health education campaigns promoting regular preventive check-ups and healthy lifestyles.
The measure also designates the month of September as “Bacolod Preventive Health Awareness Month,” during which intensified screening activities, medical missions, and health education programs shall be conducted throughout the city.
Distrito emphasized that preventive healthcare should become one of the City’s major public health priorities.*
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