28/08/2026
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฏ๐๐ง๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ ๐๐ฐ๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ข๐ฏ๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐
The Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC), through the collaborative efforts of the Section of Neurology under the Department of Internal Medicine, Brain and Spine Center, and Geriatric Center, in partnership with the Alzheimerโs Disease Association of the Philippines (ADAP) and the Philippine Neurological AssociationโCagayan Valley Chapter, conducted a lay forum on dementia awareness and prevention with the theme, โAng Larawan: Maalala Mo Pa Kaya,โ at the CVMC Amphitheater.
The forum brought together barangay health workers, senior citizens from the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) of Tuguegarao City, caregivers, and municipal health officers. Participants were provided with practical information on dementia, including an introduction to ADAP, myths and facts about the condition, diagnosis and management, prevention, and practical approaches to behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Discussions also highlighted the role of families in dementia care and the importance of equipping caregivers with the knowledge and skills needed to provide appropriate support.
Complementing the discussions, a workshop on dementia assessment tools was conducted for resident doctors, nurses, psychologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists to further enhance their skills in assessing patients with cognitive concerns.
In her message, CVMC Medical Center Chief II Dr. Cherry Lou M. Antonio emphasized that the hospitalโs responsibility goes beyond treating patients.
โAt CVMC, we believe that our responsibility goes beyond treating patients. We must also educate, empower, and work together with our communities to promote healthy aging and improve the quality of life of our senior citizens and their families. This activity reminds us that dementia is not only about memory. Behind every memory is a person, a family, and a story that deserves to be understood and cared for,โ she said.
Sharing their expertise during the forum were ADAP representatives Dr. Alvin Rae Cenima, Dr. Jemelle Cano, Dr. Ronaldo Elepano III, and Ms. Precy Cruz, along with CVMC speakers Dr. Maria Teresa Tulauan, Head of the Geriatric Center, and Dr. Vanessa Calimag, Medical Specialist II.
The event was also graced by Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay, who delivered a message of support. Representatives from the Cagayan Provincial Health Office, along with CVMC top management and personnel, were also present.
Prior to the lay forum, a roundtable discussion was held between CVMC management and personnel and ADAP representatives to discuss the proposed establishment of the CVMC Memory Center. The discussion provided an avenue to exchange ideas on strengthening services and developing more comprehensive care for older adults experiencing cognitive concerns and dementia.
Through this initiative, CVMC continues to advance inclusive and people-centered healthcare by promoting greater understanding of dementia and strengthening support for older adults, their families, and caregivers.
