ILIGAN CITY (PIA) -- Responding to the pressing need to address the increasing cases of tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the City Health Office (CHO), together with the  Department of Health and the Philippine Business for Social Progress, held its sixth annual week-long TB/HIV Mobile Caravan. 

The caravan provided essential services to various communities in the city, including free digital chest x-rays, HIV testing, genXpert sputum testing, leprosy skin tests, and health consultations with free medicines, following the World Health Organization's call to action for 2024 as the year of action against TB.

The caravan served 838 individuals across various barangays with the breakdown of beneficiaries as follows: Rogongon (100), Digkilaan (80), Dalipuga (126), Suarez (147), Tambacan (177), Saray (137), and Poblacion (71).

 Dr. Ardel Padayhag, National Tuberculosis Control Program medical coordinator of the CHO,  emphasized that all services are offered free of charge as part of their commitment to accessible healthcare for everyone.

“What is important now is that we must find the patient and treat them para ma-prevent nato nga mudaghan ang sakit sa tawo (treat them to prevent the disease from spreading further),” she said.  

Moreover, Padayhag emphasized the importance of cough etiquette, proper wearing of masks, and hand hygiene as preventive measures for TB.

Padayhag also encouraged individuals to avail themselves of the free services offered, either by visiting the TB Directly Observed Treatment at the CHO or their nearest health center. Individuals diagnosed with TB can also get free medication at health centers.

Residents expressed gratitude for the free services brought to their barangays. One of them is Raul Macapil, 76, from Pala-O, who emphasized the importance of such examinations at their age.

Similarly, Virgilia Casil, 73, from Poblacion, is thankful to the CHO for allowing those who are financially challenged to benefit from their services.  

"Dako akayo nakong kalipay nga dunay libreng sa mga tawo nga walay ikabayad sa pagpacheck up. Nagpasalamat ko sa gobyerno nga gitagaan mi og higayon nga kami mga kabos makabenepisyo mi sa libreng consultation," Antonio Rollo Mecarsos said.  

(I am very happy that there are free check-ups for people who cannot afford to pay. I am grateful to the government for giving us the opportunity as poor individuals to benefit from the free consultation.)

Moreover, Soraya Otos from Purok 6, Tambacan, said it is important to undergo regular check-ups even if they are not sick. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)