PANGASINAN – A week-long 'Lab for All' caravan has delivered a variety of free services, ranging from health care to legal assistance, to over 13,000 residents across different municipalities of Pangasinan province. The initiative took place from October 19 to 24.
According to a new release by the Philippines News Agency, the caravan is spearheaded by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, who expressed in a speech that the primary goal is to bring essential government services closer to the people, especially those in rural communities. The Department of Health offered an array of medical supplies, including medicines, diet supplements for pregnant women, oral health family packs, and mobility aids like wheelchairs and crutches. Medical professionals conducted various health checkups and even minor surgeries.
The available laboratory services encompassed X-ray, electrocardiography, ultrasound, and hearing tests. Apart from health services, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided food packs and financial aid up to PHP2,000. "We also provided financial assistance on the spot to some patients if the doctors determined that the patient needs further medical intervention. This is for extreme cases," DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian stated.
Additional aid came from various national agencies. The National Housing Authority raffled off five housing slots for Pangasinan Ville in Urdaneta City. The Commission on Higher Education provided educational subsidies to 600 students, each receiving PHP15,000. The Food and Drug Administration presented a program to help micro, small, and medium enterprises through training on license operation and product registration. Meanwhile, the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority offered starter kits for various vocations and scholarship slots.
Residents expressed gratitude for the services. Patricia Javiento thanked the government for the family pack and medicines she received. Eduardo Alcaras, a first-time beneficiary, availed of a laboratory test for urinary issues and also received vitamins and groceries. Another resident, Violeta Cabaroso, hoped the government would continue to extend such services to remote areas.
Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III also expressed his appreciation, acknowledging that most of the resources and manpower for the initiative were provided through the program spearheaded by the First Lady.