ILOILO – Free check-ups, consultations, and medicines are now reaching remote barangays in Iloilo as the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 rolls out its PuroKalusugan initiative.
The program, launched in Tubungan and Calinog towns, seeks to bridge the gap in healthcare access by deploying mobile clinics, conducting medical missions, and mounting community-based health programs.
In Tubungan, the official launch was held on Sept. 3 in Barangay Igtuble with the support of the DOH’s Human Resources for Health teams and local health workers. The activity gathered local officials, health professionals, and residents who welcomed the program as a milestone in bringing services closer to far-flung areas.
Earlier, on Aug. 28, Calinog became the first to adopt PuroKalusugan by piloting it in Barangay Alibunan and Barangay Cabagiao. The initiative there included cancer screening, oral health education, immunization drives, and nutrition advocacy.
“This model is designed to make quality healthcare accessible to all individuals, regardless of geographical barriers, ensuring that healthcare is not a privilege but a right for everyone,” DOH-6 said in its statement.
By prioritizing preventive care and community engagement, the program aims to reduce preventable diseases while strengthening local trust in public health services. Officials emphasized that the long-term goal is to build healthier and more resilient communities through sustainable, grassroots healthcare./PN
