The city governments of Malabon and Caloocan have been recognized by the Department of Health (DOH) for their dedication to advancing local health systems and driving forward Universal Health Care (UHC).
Malabon secured three distinct honors during the Local Health System Recognition: Leadership and Governance Towards Universal Health Care event held in Pasig City on Tuesday, October 27.
Among its accolades was the Good Practices in Health 2026 citation awarded to the Malabon City Health Department for its “Mindful at Work” program, which champions employee mental well-being.
The initiative provides city hall staff with access to professional consultations, free basic counseling, and essential medications. According to local government data, an internal survey revealed that 80 percent of participants believe the program helps cultivate a workplace centered on mental wellness.
In addition to the mental health citation, Malabon was acknowledged for achieving 65 percent Organizational Performance Progress under the Local Health Systems Maturity Level for 2025, alongside a separate distinction honoring its leadership, commitment, and innovation in strengthening its healthcare framework.
This marks the second consecutive year Malabon has received recognition under Good Practices in Health, following last year’s accolades for its TB Strider, Best Seat in the City, and Walang Tulugan Serbisyo Caravan initiatives.
The awards were formally accepted by City Health Department Officer-in-Charge Dr. Bernadette Bordador, Mental Health Program Medical Coordinator Dr. Geanny Punzalan, and City Health Planning Unit representative Jennifer Alducente.
The local government emphasized that it remains committed to rolling out programs focused on workforce welfare and expanding public medical services.
Meanwhile, Caloocan City earned four awards through its City Health Department for its outstanding programs promoting UHC, Good Practices in Health, and improvements in local health service delivery. The city was similarly cited for reaching 65 percent organizational progress under the LHS ML for its strategic healthcare enhancements.