MAKATI CITY — The City Government of Makati will conduct a one-day hypertension awareness and screening campaign on May 26, 2026, at the 6th Floor Auditorium of the University of Makati. Scheduled from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and open to residents aged 20 to 59, the “Proteksyon sa Altapresyon: Hypertension Awareness and Screening Campaign” seeks to improve public awareness about high blood pressure while encouraging the early detection of cardiovascular risks. The initiative will follow the Philippine Package Essential Noncommunicable Disease Interventions (PhilPEN) protocol to provide proper screening, consultation, and management for individuals with hypertension and related illnesses.
Free Health Services for Residents at Risk
Participants will receive free blood pressure checks, glucose and cholesterol testing, post-screening counseling, and prescribed medicines for qualified individuals. Health authorities continue to urge residents to take preventive healthcare seriously, as hypertension remains one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease and stroke in the country. By holding the program within a university campus, Makati showcases how educational institutions can also serve as community wellness centers. The initiative forms part of the city’s wider effort to make preventive healthcare more accessible to working-age adults who may delay routine checkups because of financial or time limitations.
Preventing Serious Health Complications
Often referred to as a “silent killer,” hypertension may develop without noticeable symptoms until severe complications arise. Regular monitoring and early medical intervention can greatly lower the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other health conditions. Through this campaign, Makati hopes to identify residents with undiagnosed or poorly controlled hypertension, connect them with follow-up healthcare services, and equip them with the knowledge and resources needed to better manage their condition. The use of the PhilPEN protocol also ensures that screenings and patient management remain aligned with national healthcare standards.
Strengthening Community-Based Preventive Healthcare
Selecting the University of Makati as the venue reflects the city’s creative use of public spaces to advance health awareness initiatives. Hosting the campaign in an academic environment also encourages younger adults, who are often overlooked in hypertension awareness drives, to become more proactive about their health. The program stands as a potential model for other local government units aiming to address noncommunicable diseases through accessible and community-centered preventive care efforts.
