Manila: San Fernando, La Union: The Department of Health - Ilocos Region (DOH 1) has officially welcomed its newly designated regional director, Dr. Helen Tobias, following a recent department order. Tobias returns to her home province from the Department of Health-Western Visayas Region, succeeding Dr. Paula Paz Sydiongco, who retired from the Ilocos Center for Health and Development (ICHD).

According to Philippines News Agency, a Department of Health advisory on Tuesday informed all partners and stakeholders, including government agencies, local government units, non-government organizations, and the public, to direct communications to Tobias, who became regional director of DOH ICHD on June 29. The transition marks a new chapter for the regional health office, with officials expressing confidence in Tobias' capacity to enhance healthcare service delivery and advance departmental programs across the region.

The Ilocos Sur provincial government congratulated Tobias on her new role and anticipates her leadership will improve healthcare and public health services. 'Guided by the shared vision of a healthier, more resilient province, may your tenure be marked by excellence, innovation, and strong collaboration in service of every Ilocano,' stated the provincial government, led by Gov. Jeremias Singson.

The Region 1 Medical Center also pledged its support for the new regional director, emphasizing its commitment to advancing quality healthcare and promoting holistic wellness throughout the Ilocos Region.

Tobias has pledged to foster a supportive work environment, enhance service delivery, and ensure that health programs effectively meet the community needs in the region. On her first day in her new role, seven newly hired doctors to the barrios and one from a post-residency program took their oath at the DOH ICHD.