Uy cited the “Balik Sigla” program, which aims to provide free physical therapy sessions to numerous stroke patients in the city who cannot afford the pricey cost of therapy sessions.

In 2023, a total of 467 beneficiaries benefited from the program.

Uy said that physical therapists from the City Health Office go around the barangays to provide therapy sessions for patients.

Another health program is called “The Doctor is in Your House,” which intends to provide free medical services to the residents at the convenience of their respective homes without going to the hospitals.

Among the beneficiaries is Ranillo Gavino from Barangay Cuambogan, who has been diagnosed as hypertensive.

“Dako kaayu akong pasalamat kay unang una, di na ko mo-adtu sa hospital. Diri pa gud mismo sa balay. Dako kaayu ni nga tabang para sa amoa then dili pod mi mahasol,” Gavino said. 

(I am very grateful because I will no longer go to the hospital. The medical services can be done right here at home. This is a big help for us.)

The city’s ATIMAN Center, or the Atimanon, Tagdon, Ilhon, Matutuon, Amumahon Nato (Care, Attend, Acknowledge, Nurture, Nourish) program,

“Sa sugod, ato kining gibuhat nga programa alang sa atong mga kabatan-onan nga nanginahangaln og dakong pagtagad sa ilang mental health. Apan atong nakita nga ang tanang pangedaran—adults, adolescents, children, nanginahanglan og dakong pagtagad,” Uy explained.

(Initially, we created this program for our youth who need attention for their mental health, but we see that people of all ages—adults, adolescents and children—also need attention.)

Uy reaffirmed his commitment to strengthen the program, saying, “Atong pakusgan ang maong programa aron matabangan ang atong mga kaigsuonang nakasinati og mental disabilities.”

Around 229 beneficiaries have availed of free eye surgeries, while 5,000 received reading glasses and 2,158 were given prescription glasses.

Another development on the health program is the construction of Super Health Centers in La Filipina, Mankilam, and Magugpo South, as well as a dialysis center at the City Hall Complex.

Uy said that these facilities will be a big help to the residents of Tagum and nearby towns, as they will no longer go to Davao City and other areas for health treatment.

He reaffirmed his commitment to continue and strengthen the health programs of the city to reach and help more people, not only in the city but also in its neighboring towns. (ASO/PIA Davao)