One thousand young Ilonggos will soon receive life-saving support under a groundbreaking diabetes program that aims to fight juvenile diabetes before it silently takes over lives.

The Province of Iloilo Diabetes Mellitus Technical Working Group, spearheaded by the Provincial Health Office (PHO), gathered for its second meeting  to map out strategies in detecting and managing Type 1 diabetes — a chronic disease that often strikes in childhood and adolescence.

The meeting zeroed in on early screening, patient education, and health literacy for children and young adults.

PHO Development Management Officer III Maria Consolacion Ebrada underscored the urgency: “Our goal is to strengthen early detection through accessible screening and to promote lifestyle changes that can prevent complications from Type 1 diabetes.”

To boost the initiative, the province has partnered with Humanity & Inclusion (HI), a global humanitarian organization known for helping vulnerable sectors.

HI will provide insulin, glucose monitoring kits, and medical supplies to beneficiaries while also co-developing education tools and standard operating procedures for patients aged 0–25.

The enrollment of 1,000 Iloilo beneficiaries marks a significant step in the province’s public health drive — a move that not only delivers free treatment but also empowers families with knowledge and long-term disease management.

Provincial officials believe this partnership is more than a health program; it is an investment in the future.

By detecting Type 1 diabetes early and giving young Ilonggos the tools to live with it, the province hopes to prevent complications, reduce financial strain on families, and promote healthier communities.IMT