Naga, AKB in series of health tasks

By Jason B. Neola

IN a commendable effort to enhance healthcare accessibility, the city government unit of Naga, in collaboration with the Ako Bicol Partylist and the national government’s Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients Program, has initiated a comprehensive citywide healthcare campaign.

Mayor Nelson Legacion expressed gratitude to Congressman Zaldy Co, the head of Ako Bicol Partylist, for the joint endeavor that kicked off on Thursday, November 23, in Barangay Bagumbayan Sur.

The medical mission, designed to cover all the 27 barangays of the city within 22 days, offered free medical check-ups, laboratory tests, and medicines to more than 250 patients. The Ako Bicol mobile clinic also provided complimentary ultrasound and x-ray services.

Nine doctors, along with health workers from both the city government and Barangay Bagumbayan Sur, joined forces with personnel from the Ako Bicol Partylist to provide essential services during the medical mission.

Dental services were a vital component of the mission, contributing to a holistic approach to community healthcare. Congressman Zaldy Co, Chairman of the Committee on Appropriations in the House of Representatives, affirmed that healthcare is a top priority for the House in 2024, alongside affordable housing and agricultural improvements, aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Filipinos.

The medical assistance provided to patients encompassed free check-ups, medicines, dental services, laboratory tests, ultrasound, ECG, and blood chem. During the medical mission, three ambulances were on standby, complemented by the Ako Bicol Tabang Ora Mismo mobile clinic.

Looking ahead, Rep. Co pledged to secure funds for the Naga City General Hospital, including the provision of dialysis machines and other essential medical equipment. Mayor Legacion acknowledged Ako Bicol Partylist’s contributions, extending beyond healthcare, such as funding the re-blocking and widening of the Balatas-Cararayan Road, the rehabilitation of the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum, and other crucial infrastructure projects within the city.

The collaborative efforts underscore a commitment to holistic development and the well-being of the Naga community.

As of the current update on Wednesday, November 29, the medical mission has successfully served four barangays: Bagumbayan Sur, Bagumbayan Norte, Abella, and Igualdad.