09 December 2021 – In keeping with the Philippine Government’s Gender and Development (GAD) advocacy and its admonition for units to promote workplace health and well-being, a Lecture-Workshop on Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM) for Neck and Low Back Pain was conducted by the Consulate General for its personnel and those of its Attached Agencies on 08 December.

The event featured a brief lecture on TCM’s history and principles, followed by demonstrations and consultations provided by licensed TCM practitioners from the TCM Department of the International Medical Center of Shanghai Renai Hospital. The team was composed of Dr. Li Zhen Pan, Dr. Song Fayi, Nurse Ellen Su Lin, and interpreter Ms. Katrina Wu Cong. 

The session then addressed the focal issue of occupational or work-related neck and back pain (cervical and lumbar spondylosis), their causes, prevention and relief. The personnel thereafter performed some practical physical exercises taught by the visiting medical team.

Section 17 of  Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta for Women provides that women shall be provided comprehensive, gender-responsive health services and programs. Section 25 of the same law affirms the right to decent work and to services in support of balancing family and work obligations.

Wellness activities are a component of the Consulate General’s annual GAD Work Plan. END