By Mariela Angella Oladive
In a bid to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office, in partnership with the Philippine Tuberculosis Society Inc., held a free chest X-ray screening on Sunday, April 7, at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.
The initiative served up to 150 individuals ages 15 and above on a first-come, first-served basis.
Though not officially part of the Semana sang Iloilo celebration, the screening supported the province’s ongoing health initiatives.
“This was part of our partnership with PTSI under the National Tuberculosis Program,” said Dr. Rodney Labis, head of the Health Service Delivery Division of the Iloilo PHO.
“They have supported us through various programs, and one of their recent offerings was this free chest X-ray screening to help improve TB detection in our communities,” he added.
Portable Tech for Remote Areas
Dr. Labis said the activity used an ultra-portable chest X-ray machine, small enough to fit in a backpack and quick to set up in remote areas.
The machine was equipped with integrated artificial intelligence that could identify potential signs of TB on-site.
Findings were verified by a radiologist, who provided the official reading.
“This new device allowed us to reach even geographically isolated communities,” Labis said.
“It supported early detection and brought TB services closer to the people.”
He noted that patients could use their X-ray results for consultations regarding any respiratory symptoms.
“If a patient’s X-ray indicates a TB infection, a free consultation is also available,” he said.
“If the doctor confirms the diagnosis and prescribes treatment, our Rural Health Units, TB-DOTS facilities, and the PTSI office in Iloilo City provide free medication.”
Charity Perea, manager of the PTSI Iloilo Branch, emphasized the importance of reducing stigma in TB screening.
“One of the challenges we face is that some people are hesitant to undergo screening because they fear stigma or negative results,” she said.
“We need to remove the fear and embarrassment because, by working together, we have a greater chance of eliminating this disease.”
Joemarie Ledesma, a 44-year-old electrician, was among the beneficiaries of the screening.
He said the initiative was especially helpful to those with limited income.
He appreciated the opportunity to check his health condition without the financial burden.
He added that many people only seek an X-ray when symptoms become serious.
Residents who missed the screening were encouraged to contact their local government units.
Municipalities may coordinate with the PHO and PTSI to schedule similar community-based activities.
The PHO is also working with the Philippine Business for Social Progress and the Department of Health, which provided a mobile X-ray van to expand services in barangays.
TB in Iloilo: Current Data and Response
According to PHO data, the province recorded 8,868 TB cases of all forms in 2024, with a case notification rate of 429 per 100,000 population—below the 650 per 100,000 target.
Passi City had the highest number of cases at 539, followed by Pototan with 464, Dumangas with 382, San Joaquin with 328, and Barotac Viejo with 294.
Despite the detection gap, the province exceeded the national treatment success rate target with a 96% success rate, surpassing the 90% benchmark.
The PHO also enrolled 438 individuals in TB preventive treatment and screened 98% of TB cases for HIV.
Of those screened, 39 tested positive for HIV and were linked to treatment.
However, 160 TB patients died while undergoing treatment, highlighting the need for stronger case detection and timely care.
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other organs.
Reinforcing Iloilo’s TB-Free 2025 Vision
The Iloilo PHO reaffirmed its commitment to its TB-free 2025 goal through five strategic pillars:
- Strengthening health facilities through worker training, diagnostics, and integrated care.
- Expanding active case finding and screening, especially in remote and Indigenous communities.
- Securing sustainable TB financing with more LGU support and PhilHealth DOTS accreditation.
- Ensuring a consistent TB drug supply and broader treatment access.
- Enhancing TB surveillance through case tracking and death reviews.
These actions align with the global 90-90-90 TB targets:
- 90% case detection rate
- 90% treatment success rate
- 90% preventive treatment coverage for high-risk groups
The PHO encouraged residents to support the province’s TB response by seeking early diagnosis, joining community screenings, and completing treatment.
For more information, residents may contact the Iloilo Provincial Health Office or visit their nearest Rural Health Unit.
