The Quezon City Government, in partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc., officially launched the “Iwas Dialysis, Ligtas Kidneys: Get CheCKD habang maaga pa!” program on June 22, 2026, in celebration of National Kidney Month.
The citywide initiative aims to strengthen early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and improve kidney health awareness among QCitizens, particularly those at increased risk. Through community-based screening and education, the program encourages earlier health-seeking behavior and supports timely referral to appropriate care before complications arise.
In the Philippines, CKD remains a growing public health concern, with an estimated 13 million Filipinos, or 11.2% of the population, living with the condition, many of whom remain undiagnosed until later stages. Early detection is critical, as timely intervention can help slow disease progression and reduce the risk of serious complications.
“National Kidney Month reminds us that awareness must go hand in hand with access to screening and preventive care,” said Dr. Bin Wang, General Manager, Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc. “Through Iwas Dialysis, Ligtas Kidneys, we aim to empower QCitizens to better understand their kidney health and take timely action when needed.”
In line with its commitment to bringing healthcare closer to communities, over 4,000 residents participated in kidney health screening, risk assessment, and patient counseling at Quezon City Hall. Participants also engaged with interactive health education booths highlighting the connection between heart, kidney, and metabolic health, including conditions such as diabetes.
To date, over 8,000 individuals have undergone kidney health screening and assessment through the program, with Quezon City accounting for nearly half of its total reach. The initiative has been implemented across 21 barangays, primarily in District 1, and recently expanded to District 2, with pilot screening in Barangay Payatas reaching over 200 residents.
“Advancing sustainability means enabling individuals and communities to live healthier lives,” said Augusto Muench, Global Head of Sustainability, Boehringer Ingelheim. “When people are supported to prevent or better manage chronic conditions, they are better able to pursue opportunities, while healthcare systems are strengthened through a shift toward prevention and early intervention.”
The program also featured an educational session led by Dr. Anthony Russell Villanueva, nephrologist from National Kidney and Transplant Institute, who highlighted the link between kidney, heart, and metabolic health and emphasized the importance of early CKD detection in preventing serious complications.
Participants also heard from CJ Luis of Dialysis PH Support Group, Inc., who shared a personal journey with CKD, underscoring the importance of early screening, increased awareness, and timely access to care.
The program concluded with a symbolic activity involving representatives from the Quezon City local government, healthcare community, patient organizations, and Boehringer Ingelheim, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing CKD awareness, prevention, and early detection efforts at the community level.
Quezon City Mayor Josefina “Joy” Belmonte underscored the importance of bringing preventive healthcare services closer to communities.
“Early screening of high-risk individuals can significantly delay chronic disease progression,” said Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. “Here in Quezon City, we are committed to our shared advocacy of healthy kidneys, good kidney health, and, of course, early detection and prevention. Together, I know that we will bring Quezon City one step closer to a future where each QCitizen is healthy and ready to embrace their fullest potential.”
The initiative reflects Boehringer Ingelheim’s commitment to transforming lives for generations by improving health outcomes through sustainable, community-based partnerships. By focusing on earlier detection and intervention in chronic diseases such as CKD, the company continues to support more resilient healthcare systems and healthier communities.
Residents are encouraged to prioritize regular health check-ups and early screening, particularly those living with risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease. For more information on Chronic Kidney Disease and early screening, visit ItStartsWithYou.com.ph.
