ILOILO CITY – Health and wellness programs implemented by the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas may be adopted by other police regional offices across the country, officials said Monday.
The possibility was raised during the launch of TSeK Cop, or Tamang Serbisyo sa Kalusugan ng Pulis, and the closing ceremony of Project Shape Up at the PRO-6 headquarters in Iloilo City.
Philippine National Police Health Service Director Brig. Gen. Portia Manalad said the national headquarters already offers a range of health services, but noted that it has no program similar to Project Shape Up.
The eight-week program focused on obese police personnel and provided intensive interventions aimed at improving their health. A total of 91 personnel participated.
Three officers from the Iloilo Police Provincial Office were recognized for recording the highest percentage of weight loss. Police MSgt. Joenimar Paloa topped the group after losing 26 kilograms, or 26 percent of his initial 100-kilogram weight.
Under TSeK Cop, the Regional Medical and Dental Unit provides free laboratory tests, dental screenings and dentures, quarterly monitoring for non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, eye examinations with free eyeglasses, and mental health services.
During the launch, six personnel received dentures while 12 were provided eyeglasses.
Manalad said the program aims to build a stronger culture of health awareness among police personnel by encouraging regular medical assessments, early detection of health concerns and healthier lifestyle choices.
PRO-6 Director Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said that since assuming office in May, he had prioritized the physical and mental well-being of police personnel, followed by their financial welfare.
“Before we give them instructions and directions, we looked into their well-being so they will be fit for any challenges related to their police work,” Tuaño said.
