Agusan Del Sur

Agusan Del Sur is proclaimed as the First Filaria free province in CARAGA region based on World Health Organization standard. According to Gov. Adolph Edward "Eddiebong" G. Plaza "Thats something we could be proud of"; during the province Filaria Free Declaration on Aug 24, 2010 at the Provincial Government Center Covered Court.

A decade ago, the province of Agusan Del Sur had emerging cases of Filaria as shown by Nocturnal Blood Examination (NBE) which was conducted in different municipalities. As control strategy to interrupt the transmission of infection, in 2003 an annual Mass Treatment was carried out by the Department of Health, Provincial Health Office and Rural Health Units. This is administered by annual giving of drugs to all individuals aged two (2) and above for six consecutive years. Full coverage was strategically ensured.

Series of examinations were done. It was a battle of almost 10 years. This year, result of validation from Atlanta, USA revelaed that Microfilaria Rate (MFR) is vey minimal and less than 1% per 1000 population. Thus, this confirmed eliminating Lymphatic Filaria in Agusan Del Sur. This is valid evidence that the province can be declared "Filaria Free" first in CARAGA region based on World Health Organization standard.

However, according to Dr. Leonita P. Gorgolan, Director IV from Center for Health Development, CARAGA, "It is a known fact that there is still a tendency for the decease to re-emerge, so we must further strengthen our efforts and sustain what we have effectively implemented". So to ensure that everyone will be vigilant, Gov. Plaza offered a reward of PhP10,000.00 for the individual who can bring a filaria-infected Agusanon to any local hospital.

Gov. Eddie Bong Plaza receives a commendation from DOH Asst. Secretary Paulyn Ubial (3^rd from left) during the rites held officially declaring Agusan del Sur as filaria-free, the first province in Caraga region. The governor and other stakeholders were cited for their strong support to the program.  Looking on are Vice Gov. Santiago Cane (4^th from right), DOH Caraga director Leonita Gorgolon (4^th from left) and other health officials.

By: Ces Pagar (Admin Officer IV - PAdminO)