The ongoing Halad Surgical Mission, aimed at making surgical care accessible to underserved and hinterland communities, has received widespread appreciation for providing free surgical interventions to over 600 patients from across the province.
The six-day surgical mission running from May 29 to June 1 at the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC), addresses a range of conditions, offering much-needed relief and enhancing the quality of life for the beneficiaries. Patients with ailments ranging from minor issues to complex surgical needs have been treated. Procedures include hernia repairs, cleft lip and palate corrections, thyroidectomies, cholecystectomies, parotidectomies, cataract extractions, and cyst removals, among others.
Governor Niño Uy expressed his gratitude to the dedicated team of surgeons, nurses, volunteers, and sponsors who have worked tirelessly to ensure that each patient receives high-quality care. Highlighting that this is the second surgical mission under his administration, Governor Uy emphasized that healthcare is a top priority, recognizing health as a fundamental human right.
“We always prioritize health programs in our government. Investing resources in healthcare is essential because no matter your status, if your health fails, it’s a significant problem,” he said. “Our government aims to ensure that our people are healthy and happy. Health issues affect not just individuals but their families as well.”
He pledged to continue efforts to improve the province’s health programs. “As long as we are here, we feel a sense of obligation to strive hard and do our best to help the people of Davao Oriental.”
The impact of the Halad Surgical Mission extends beyond immediate medical benefits. For many patients, the surgeries have been life-changing, enabling them to lead more active and productive lives. Testimonials from beneficiaries highlight significant improvements in their physical health and overall well-being. Jerry Garcia, a father of four from the remote Barangay Ompao in Tarragona, expressed his happiness as his son’s cleft lip will finally be fixed, saving his family a substantial amount of money.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Reden Bersaldo said the mission is part of the Universal Health Care initiative, providing access to healthcare for all, especially those in the hinterlands, thus bridging the healthcare gap. Besides the annual Halad Surgical Mission, the provincial government also provides quarterly free surgeries for OB-Gyne cases, with another massive surgical mission scheduled for August.
He urged patients with various ailments to visit the DOPMC, and for those in hinterland communities, to seek guidance from their barangay health centers.
The 2024 Halad Surgical mission was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the provincial government, medical professionals, and various partner organizations, including the Southern Philippines Medical Center, Department of Health, DOPMC, LGU City of Mati, City Health Office, Ministry of Health Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Atty. Raisa Jajurie, Halad Mission Group Foundation, UCCP Social Concerns Foundation, Inc., Frank Jerome Philippines Foundation, Inc., Summerfrolic Organization, and BLGU Dahican. PIO | Photos by JB Rain
