Phil Army, UNTV conduct 1st Free Medical Mission in Sorsogon for 2013

Photo: 903rd Inf Bgde Phil Army

CASTILLA, SORSOGON, Jan 21 (PIA) – The 903rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army with a strong partnership with the UNTV Network conducted its first medical mission in the province of Sorsogon on January 15, 2013, in Gabao National High School, Brgy Gabao, Irosin, Sorsogon.

“With the opportunity extended to the Philippine Army to recommend areas for medical missions, the 31^st Infantry Battalion, under the Brigade’s operational control designated Brgy Gabao in Irosin as the first beneficiary for CY 2013,” said 903^rd Brigade Commanding Officer Col. Joselito E. Kakilala.

Supporting UNTV in this laudable undertaking is the Kamangagawa Foundation, Clinic ni Kuya Daniel Razon and Bro. Ely Soriano. The Local Government Unit led by Municipal Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr. sent their municipal doctors and nurses to join said activity.

The Sangguniang Barangays including Brgy Captains of the 10 adjacent barangays, were also present and brought their constituents to avail of the free medical services offered.

Photo: 903rd Inf Bgde Phil. Army

Col Kakilala said the medical mission included medical and dental services, x-ray services and optical check-up with free eyeglasses distribution. Soldiers from the 31IB also provided free haircut and therapeutic massage.

“The activity benefited 1,986 clienteles of 10 barangays of Irosin town. Of the total number, 315 adults and 366 pedia were given medical check-ups, 145 for dental, 260 for optical, 35 on reflexology, 95 haircut services and 745 recipients of free medicines. The UNTV’s X-ray Van which traveled all the way from Manila also served 25 local residents,” he added.

Col Joselito E Kakilala further said that UNTV’s medical missions have made a huge difference in the lives of the people of Sorsogon, especially to the indigents. “This endeavor is in line with the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan- Bayanihan,” he also stressed out.

Meanwhile, Brgy Chairperson Teresa Pontalan of Brgy Gabao said it was the first time, after long, long years, that they experienced a medical mission with abundant medicines and with many doctors, nurses and other medical practitioners congregated in their place.

Irosin Municipal Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr, on the other hand, said that the medical mission boosted the health services program of the municipality providing prompt treatment and adequate medicines to their people. (Cpt MPanesa, PA/BARecebido, PIA Sorsogon)