Over half a million worth of essential medicines were donated to serve vulnerable communities in Impasugong and Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.
In Bukidnon’s rural communities, where access to healthcare and essential medicines is often a challenge, Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (AFI) stepped up to make a difference by expanding the access to free medicines through “Botika ng Bayan” (BNB), ensuring that residents, including Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and the elderly, can access the medicines they need.
This initiative is expected to aid residents, including Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and the elderly, to receive the medicines they need, supporting their right to quality healthcare.
The program will provide targeted, community-specific support, with each Botika ng Bayan receiving PHP 250,000 worth of medicines, chosen by local health leaders based on the unique needs of the area. This includes essential maintenance medicines for elderly residents, ensuring that even those in the most isolated barangays have the resources to maintain their health.
“Our goal is to bring immediate and accessible health care to communities that often lack these resources. This support from Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation is a true gift that directly meets the needs of our residents, especially our Indigenous families,” said Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño of Manolo Fortich during the turnover ceremony.
With over 50,000 residents benefiting from Hedcor’s initiatives in the area this year, the expanded Botika ng Bayan reflects the company’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3 on Health and Well-being, as well as its ongoing efforts to build lasting health solutions in the region.
“The support from Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation is a lifeline for our town. Having access to these medicines means better quality of life and fewer obstacles to health, especially for our elderly and vulnerable groups,” said Mayor Anthony A. Uy of Impasugong.
Noreen Vicencio, Hedcor Vice President for Corporate Services, emphasized the initiative’s importance, “Access to free, quality medicine is a basic right. We are honored to work with Aboitiz Foundation to ensure this right is upheld in our communities.”
Through initiatives like this, Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation are not only investing in the health of Bukidnon’s residents but also strengthening the resilience and well-being of the communities, laying a stronger foundation for sustainable growth.
