SEVENTY-TWO-YEAR-OLD Susana Bedural joined the growing line outside the Green Valley covered court in Barangay Manuyo Dos in Las Piñas City. Arriving with her granddaughter Michelle, she had arrived about an hour early to secure her spot.
“Malaking bagay na mayroong pa-medical na gaya nito,” Susana said with a gentle smile. “Syempre hindi ko palalampasin ito. Sabi nung barangay mayroong free check-ups at maging libreng ECG at bakuna para sa mga senior.”
For Susana, who lives in a modest home in Manuyo Dos, the city government’s health and wellness activity represents more than convenience, but a vital connection to healthcare.
“Bihira lang ako magpa-checkup kaya malaking bagay ito,” she explained. “Minsan may gastos din kasi ‘yung checkup lalo kapag hindi libre ‘yung gamot o ‘yung ECG.”
By 9 a.m., the covered court had transformed into a bustling medical facility. Health officials and partners are stationed in designated areas offering various services: medical consultations, blood pressure checks, cholesterol and blood sugar testing, ECG, X-ray, dental services, and the pneumococcal vaccination that Susana had come for.
When her name is called, Susana is guided to a consultation area where a doctor reviews her medical history.
This even highlights exactly why Las Piñas Mayor Imelda Aguilar has championed these mobile health initiatives across the city’s 20 barangays.
“Many of our senior citizens face invisible barriers to healthcare,” explains Dr. Julie Gonzalez, head of the City Health Office (CHO), which organizes the caravans. “Transportation costs, long wait times, and medication expenses become insurmountable obstacles. That’s why we bring comprehensive services directly to them.”
The caravan offers more than just medical services. Local nutritionists provide dietary advice tailored to seniors’ needs and budgets. Green Card help desks assist with documentation. Mobile birth registration services help those who never obtained proper identification. PhilHealth representatives enroll eligible residents into the national health insurance program.
Susana was one of over 400 residents served during the single-day event at Manuyo Dos. Many, like her, were elderly residents who rarely seek preventive care.
The value of these caravans extends beyond convenience. Dr. Gonzalez emphasizes that they play a crucial role in early detection of serious health conditions.
Beyond medical interventions, the caravan provides something equally valuable: human connection. Many seniors who attend are often left in their house alone or have limited social interaction.
This condition reflects Mayor Aguilar’s vision for the program. “Healthcare is not just about treating illness—it’s about treating people with dignity,” the mayor said when launching the expanded caravan program earlier this year. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Contributed photo)
