"DOH will have to build efficiency, multi-sectoral approach, strong teams and global positioning".

This was the pronouncement of DOH Secretary Janette P. Loreto-Garin during the 4th National Staff Meeting (NSM) held April 27-28, 2016 at the Pearlmont Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City with the theme “Performance and Power in the Health Sector". 

Secretary Garin underscored the importance of ensuring that the whole Department works as one family and as a "power team" with a collective effort to leave a legacy in the health sector.  She also stressed the need to harness the Department's strengths to attain more areas for growth in health in the next medium term.

Towards this, the Department is set to define a "bolder vision" and implement initial strategic adjustments which includes among others: 1) a comprehensive and specialized capacity building for program managers to manage more complex programs equipped with appropriate public health ethics at the same time; 2) reorienting the model of care through a "patient-centered care" in DOH hospitals and 3) integrated and innovative health regulations that will protect Filipinos from making wrong decisions or choices.

In her closing message, Secretary Garin reminded all the participants of the following that best describe and guide DOH in its journey: 1) the Spirit of Audacity where DOH does not succumb to fear or frustration no matter how big the problem; 2) the Spirit of Community where the Department, with all differences and competencies, work together as one and 3) the Spirit of Accountability to answer for all the Department's work and actions.

Finally, she thanked DOH RO X for an excellent and world class preparation as host of the NSM.  mdmn