ANTIQUE — More than 420 Indigenous Peoples (IP) benefited from a multi-agency Serbisyo Caravan held on April 29, 2026, in Barangay General Fullon, bringing essential health and social services closer to underserved communities.
The activity, dubbed the 2nd Serbisyo Caravan, was spearheaded by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), in partnership with the Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) and the Antique Provincial Health Office.
The caravan gathered various government agencies and stakeholders, including the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and PhilHealth, in a coordinated effort to deliver vital services to the IP community.
At the center of the initiative were the health services provided by DOH WV CHD. Residents availed of free medical consultations, diagnostic services such as blood sugar and uric acid testing, and dental procedures, including tooth extractions.
Organizers said the caravan underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive healthcare by reaching geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
Beyond medical services, the activity also facilitated PhilHealth registration, national ID enrollment, and birth registration, ensuring long-term access to government programs and social protection.
DOH-6 emphasized that the initiative aims not only to provide immediate healthcare but also to strengthen the connection between government services and Indigenous communities.
The strong turnout highlighted the continuing need for accessible health and social services in remote areas.
Officials said similar initiatives will be sustained and expanded to ensure that marginalized communities across Western Visayas are not left behind./PN
