On November 19, 2024, the House of Representatives hosted the launching of a life-saving advocacy called, Champions of Children’s Optimal (COCO) Heart Health.
COCO was founded by PJ and Ramelyn Francisco, whose 12-year-old son, Coco, suddenly succumbed to heart disease. The initiative is aimed at promoting preventive cardiovascular care and improving heart health awareness among pediatric populations to help create an uninterrupted, brilliant future for them.
Godmother of Coco and Chairperson of the Committee on the Welfare of Children, Rep. Angelica Natasha Co of the BHW Partylist, opened the program with a compelling message that “the choices we make today, from providing nutritious meals to encouraging physical activity and regular health checks, play a pivotal role in securing their future”.
Coco’s mother, Ramelyn, shared a touching message with the hope that, “Today, we start with a whisper which we believe will swell into a big, resounding voice that stands up for future generations”.
Two esteemed speakers conducted highly informative and insightful discussions. Among them was Dr. Alberto Atilano, the Director of the Foundation for Lay Education on Heart Diseases, who tackled the value of primordial prevention of cardiovascular disease.
He highlighted the significant shift in government strategy, noting that while resources have traditionally focused on secondary prevention, a concerted effort towards primary prevention is facilitated by partnerships between the Department of Health and local government units.
The second notable speaker to share his expertise was Mr. Harvie de Baron, a nutrition specialist who made very interesting points about how to eat brightly and live right, encouraging healthy diets and sustainable choices for children. All attendees were called to disseminate their newfound knowledge within their families and communities.
COCO underscores the significant role that all members of society, especially parents, guardians, educators, and healthcare professionals, play in fostering the growth of children who are healthy, strong, and resilient.
The advocacy launch was part of the commemoration of National Children’s Month, attended by students from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and De La Salle Santiago Zobel School.
