PUDTOL, Apayao – The Department of Health (DOH)-Apayao organized a physical activity called the “Beat the Heat: Larong Pinoy Challenge” on March 27, 2024, for the students of Lower and Upper Swan Elementary School as means to revive traditional games and promote health.
The event showcased Patintero, Luksong Tinik, Step Yes-Step No, Kadang-kadang, Agawan Base, Sack Race, and Tumbang Preso.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Mark Joleen Calban stated that the event emphasized the importance of physical activities in preventing non-communicable diseases among children while promoting a sense of cultural appreciation.
Highlighting the role of traditional games in promoting health, Development Management Officer IV (DMO) Cheryl Reyes encouraged students to embrace “Larong Pinoy” as an alternative to electronic games, adding that the increasing addiction to gadgets among school children is a major concern affecting their academics and development.
Dr. Anne-Gelica Betat, a rural health physician, urged teachers to incorporate these activities into their Physical Education curriculum to ensure continuous participation. Similarly, barangay officials in Swan recognized the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting health and wellness at the grassroots level.
This initiative aligns with the DOH’s health promotion playbook, a valuable tool for empowering local communities to strive for greater wellness. By J. Dela Torre
