Healthcare, social services brought closer to Kagay-anons through ‘LAB for All’ caravan

By JR Arellano

Residents in Cagayan de Oro City and nearby areas accessed free healthcare, social services, and government assistance during the “Libreng Laboratoryo, Konsulta, at Gamot para sa Lahat” (LAB for All) Caravan on May 19.

Led by First Lady Louise ‘Liza’ Araneta-Marcos, the caravan mobilized national government agencies and private-sector partners to provide medical consultations, laboratory services, medicines, livelihood support, and regulatory assistance.

FL Marcos noted that the caravan is specifically designed to address the quiet struggles of everyday citizens who often put their basic needs on the backburner.

Hundreds of residents in and around Cagayan de Oro City received free medical assistance from Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC), Capitol University Medical Center; while Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHILHEALTH) reinforced its commitment to bringing accessible healthcare and diagnostic services closer to every Filipino family.

Meanwhile, a total of 1,500 beneficiaries received cash assistance during the activity, while 1,500 family food packs were distributed to qualified recipients of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Wheelchairs were also turned over to persons with disabilities (PWDs) as part of the government’s continuing efforts to provide accessible and inclusive social services.

Through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), three SLP associations received livelihood grants totaling Php 1,540,000 to support their Mobile Food Cart and Sewing Hub projects.

Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) distributed 100 wheelchairs, 47 nebulizer, 1,500 CHARITIMBA, and 1,500 (5 kls) rice.

Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 10 offers Free Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) for applicants of Student Driver’s Permit; medical services such as issuance of Medical Certificates for LTO Student Permit/License purposes and medical consultation as well as Application for Student Driver’s Permit, Renewal of Driver’s License, and Renewal of Motor Vehicle registration.

LTO Region 10 distributed Motorcycle (MC) plates to MCs with temporary plates and those who have 7-digit character plates.

Meanwhile, Mary Rose Martinez of Barangay Lapasan expressed her gratitude for the free medical mission and assistance provided, saying the program is a big help for families who cannot afford laboratory services and other medical needs. JRA/ SBNP