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“GALAW-GALAW PILIPINAS!” — the call was loud, clear, and cardio-powered. On October 26, 2025, the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) didn’t just celebrate 25 years of joining the global World Heart Day — they made it a national wake-up callto get moving before our hearts wave the white flag.
After all, the numbers don’t lie — and they’re not flattering either. Almost 4 in 10 Filipino adults and 1 in 10 children are overweight or obese. That’s a lot of extra baggage for our hearts to carry. Add to that, 46% of adults are physically inactivewhile 75% of teens are glued to their screens. The result? Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to reign as the country’s top killer, claiming 112,789 lives in 2023 alone.
PHA President Dr. Walid Amil couldn’t have said it better: “Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Around 38% of Filipino adults already have a high body mass index.”
But here’s the good news — it’s preventable. The World Heart Federation says up to 80% of heart disease and stroke casescan be stopped with something as simple as… movement. Yes, exercise remains the cheapest, most effective “medicine” there is.
So, this year’s theme — “Don’t Miss a Beat” — and the PHA’s local call to action — “Galaw-Galaw Pilipinas!” — remind us that even small steps count. In true bayanihan spirit, PHA took the message to Barangay Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City, proving that big changes begin in the barangay — one brisk walk, one zumba step, one stretch at a time.
So if you’re reading this while slouched over your phone — stand up, stretch, and take a quick walk. Because remember: the best time to move was yesterday; the next best time is now. Galaw-galaw, Pilipinas — don’t miss a beat!