20/08/2026
JICA InaWaTaNu-BARMM Project Holds First TWG Meeting for Community Health Activities
COTABATO CITY — The Ministry of Health of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOH-BARMM), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) InaWaTaNu-BARMM Project, conducted the First Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting for Community Health Activities on August 17, 2026, at the Minister’s Hall, MOH-BARMM, Cotabato City.
The meeting was presided over by Ms. Anisa A. Matuan, MPA, Chairperson of the Technical Working Group, and brought together TWG members and concerned health stakeholders, including representatives from the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) of Maguindanao and the City Health Office (CHO) of Cotabato City. The participants discussed the current situation of community health activities and explored strategies to strengthen the delivery of maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition services across the Bangsamoro region.
The JICA InaWaTaNu-BARMM Project Team presented key findings from its survey, highlighting existing community health activities, identified gaps, and areas requiring further support and improvement. The presentation served as a basis for discussions on strengthening community-based health interventions.
The meeting also focused on the proposed Training of Trainers (TOT) for Rural Health Units (RHUs), covering the roles of Barangay Health Workers as community health workers, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health and Nutrition (MNCHN) services, and PhilHealth-related services. The proposed training aims to enhance the capacity of health workers and community partners in delivering essential health services at the community level.
An open forum provided TWG members and participants with an opportunity to share insights, recommendations, and concerns regarding the proposed community health activities. Discussions emphasized the importance of collaboration and coordinated efforts among health offices and partners in addressing gaps and improving community-based health services.
The meeting concluded with discussions on the next steps and commitments of the TWG, reaffirming the shared commitment of MOH-BARMM, JICA InaWaTaNu-BARMM Project, IPHO Maguindanao, CHO Cotabato City, and other partners to strengthen community health activities and contribute to improved maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition outcomes throughout the Bangsamoro region.
