BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The Ateneo de Iloilo Alumni Association, in partnership with the Ateneo de Iloilo Administration, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), and a team of volunteer doctors, lawyers, and law students, launched its inaugural “The Blue Initiative: A Legal Aid and Medical Mission” on November 23, 2024. This event underscores their commitment to addressing vital medical and legal needs in Iloilo City through community service.
Atty. Mark Gorriceta, president of the Ateneo de Iloilo Alumni Association, emphasized the mission’s significance: “This is an early gift to our fellow Ilonggos. For our first effort, we focused on barangays near Ateneo de Iloilo – Airport, Tabucan and San Rafael. Our goal was to assist 300 patients with free medical consultations, legal advice and medicines. We hope this provides much-needed support to those who need it most.”
The success of this mission relied on around 60 dedicated volunteers, including legal professionals, medical practitioners and students.
“With Doc Mike Pocesion and myself leading, we combined our talents to organize this impactful initiative,” said Atty. Gorriceta. “It’s a testament to the power of volunteerism and what we can achieve together.”
Volunteers offered their time and expertise, ensuring that patients received comprehensive care for their medical and legal concerns. The event also served as a platform for young professionals and students to gain valuable experience, blending service with professional growth.
Organizers expressed a vision for continuity, aiming to make this mission an annual tradition. “Even after our administration, we hope future leaders will expand this effort,” shared Atty. Gorriceta. “We want it to grow each year, reaching more people and creating a lasting impact on the community.”
Sustaining the project will involve building stronger partnerships and engaging more stakeholders to enhance the scope of services provided in future missions.
With 300 beneficiaries in its first run, The Blue Initiative demonstrates the transformative power of collaboration and shared purpose. By merging expertise from the medical and legal fields, the mission fosters a sense of unity and hope within the community./PN
