The outreach activity was organized by the offices of Rep. Paolo Duterte and Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II, as part of continuing efforts to bring basic government services closer to communities with limited access to healthcare.
Volunteer doctors and medical personnel provided general consultations and eye examinations, while staff from the two offices distributed free medicines and prescription eyeglasses to patients of all ages.
In a joint statement, the Dutertes said the medical mission was aimed at easing the financial and logistical burden of residents who struggle to regularly access hospital and clinic services.
Aside from medical assistance, beneficiaries were also given hot porridge, mineral water, and light snacks while waiting for consultations and medicines.
Residents Marites Saban and Merlito Tayco expressed gratitude for the free medical checkups, medicines, and vitamins they received, noting that the assistance was a significant help for their families.
Barangay Bago Gallera Chairman Rey Gervacio also thanked the organizers for bringing the services directly to the community, saying the initiative helped ease the healthcare expenses of many residents.
Later in the evening, staff from Rep. Duterte’s office distributed relief assistance to around 40 families affected by a fire in Purok 7, Barangay 37-D.
The families received dinner packs, hot porridge, biscuits, and mineral water.
The First District Office is also set to provide breakfast meals and additional relief items, including food packs and PZD kits containing blankets, towels, and undergarments, to 12 homeowners, three sharers, 11 renters, and 14 boarders affected by the incident.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection – Davao City, the fire broke out along the boundary of Barangays 37-D and 76-A on Wednesday evening, February 18.
The blaze was raised to second alarm before it was declared under control.
The BFP said at least 11 houses were affected, displacing dozens of families who are temporarily staying at a barangay gymnasium.
Barangay officials immediately provided modular tents and initial relief assistance. Meanwhile, the City Social Welfare and Development Office and the Department of Social Welfare and Development continue profiling and validating affected residents to facilitate further assistance.