Council adopts newborn screening ordinance

The 21st City Council has approved the Newborn Screening Ordinance of Cagayan de Oro, principally authored by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez and co-authored by Councilors Jonjon Rodriguez and Paolo Gaane.

Originally filed in the previous council on April 23, 2024, the measure underwent series of committee hearings and deliberations, receiving strong support from the City Health Office, the Department of Health, and PhilHealth Region X.

“This ordinance institutionalizes newborn screening as a permanent part of our city’s health services,” Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez said.

Newborn screening is a crucial preventive measure that identifies metabolic, genetic, and other disorders that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications or even death. The ordinance aligns with Republic Act 9288, or the Newborn Screening Act of 2004, which mandates the nationwide implementation of newborn screening.

By institutionalizing this, the city is taking a significant step in safeguarding the health and well-being of all newborns, ensuring timely and life-saving medical interventions for them. (JDO/SP)