In an effort to help the national government in combating the spread of Tuberculosis (TB), the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) implemented the program “TB Sugpuin: Sama Sama, Kayang Kaya” which improved early detection and cure of TB in various municipalities.
Believing that good health is good politics, LMP approved a resolution that pushed for the implementation of TB control program in all municipalities, with mayors taking the lead.
Unlike other laws passed in Congress that are not realized due to lack of funding, LMP resolutions quickly shows results of implementation of their various programs and projects, explained Ms. Li-ann De Leon, LMP Executive Director .
“When this program kicked off in March last year, campaigning for the national and local elections were starting to intensify,” Ms. De Leon said. “For most organizations, this situation meant stalled program implementation, but we in LMP saw the election period as an opportunity to get better support from Mayors,” she explained.
When mayors make their presence felt on the ground in providing basic health services, people remember them, she added.
“The program of the LMP and USAID-TBLINC formally ended last June, it generated 19 chapter resolutions which cascaded in several provinces,” shared Mayor Roel Paras, LMP Secretary General and Spokesperson for the program.
“Even though the program has ended, we are determined to continue localizing the program and getting political commitments from Mayors to sustain comprehensive implementation of National TB programs and activities,” said Paras.
Meanwhile, Mayor Strike Revilla, LMP National President said that support of the mayor is very crucial in the successful implementation of any national health program.
“Any national government program will not be successful unless mayors are fully supportive of it,” Mayor Revilla said. “LMP has 1,500 member municipalities and we will advance our priority agenda for development” he explained. LMP
