TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) – First Lady (FL) Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos launched the “Libreng Laboratoryo, Konsulta, at Gamot Para Sa Lahat” (Free Laboratory, Consultation, and Medicine for All), or the “Lab for All” caravan, at the People’s Center and Library in Tacloban City on July 4.
FL Marcos also led the ceremonial distribution of DOLE-TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers) pay-outs of P4,050 each to over 1,000 beneficiaries.
“This is the way that we are trying to give government services closer to the people,” FL Marcos said.
Together with the first lady, the Department of Health (DOH) and 40 other public and private agencies made their presence known at the event by putting up stalls with vegetables, fruits, crops, livestock, native delicacies, etc.
“Importante din malaman ng mga tao na hindi lamang health ang prina-prioritize ng Department of Health, pati wellness and longevity. Mayroon kaming health promotions and disease preventions. Kumain nang tama, magkaroon ng disiplina, maaaring magpabakuna. Kapag healthy ka lagi, mas hahaba ang buhay mo, mas less ang challenges,” DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized.
(It is important for people to know that the Department of Health not only prioritizes one’s health but also wellness and longevity. We have health promotions and disease prevention. It is imperative to eat healthy food on time, have discipline on the amount of intake, and get vaccinated [to avoid illness. When one is always healthy, one can live longer with fewer medical-related challenges.)
Around 2,000 beneficiaries availed of free medical assistance such as ear, nose, and throat checkups; eye checkups and vision screening; pharmacy, dental, and laboratory services (e.g. x-ray).
Maria Lourdes, a 64-year-old who traveled with her grandchild from Tanauan, Leyte, to the “Lab for All” venue, expressed her gratitude upon availing of free check-ups, medicines, and other essentials.
“Bisan harayo ako, gin-aabot ko gud ini kay dako gud ini na bulig. Yana kay nakakuha hin libre, diri na mga paraliton. Malipay gud it mga tawo, sugad ha akon,” she said.
(Even though I’m from far away, I tried my best to come here because it will be worth it. Now that I have received freebies, I won’t need to buy them for now. People are very happy, including me.)
FL Marcos has already spearheaded 29 “Lab for All” caravans in the Philippines, which first started on May 16, 2023, in DREAM Zone, Batangas City. (JKA, PIA Leyte, with reports from R. Victoria)
