Transformative healthcare initiative reaches indigenous population in Davao del Sur.
Over 500 members of the Bagobo Tagabawa community in Lower Pogpog, Sibulan, Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur celebrated Indigenous Peoples Day by participating in a medical and dental mission organized by Hedcor and the Aboitiz Foundation, promoting health and wellness.
Hedcor, an Aboitiz Power Renewable Energy Asset Manager, together with the Aboitiz Foundation, focused on addressing the healthcare needs of the Bagobo Tagabawa community, which has limited access to essential medical services.
The mission provided comprehensive medical check-ups to diagnose and treat various health conditions, dental examinations to promote oral health, and free medications for the Bagobo Tagabawa beneficiaries. Children also received free vitamins as prescribed by the attending doctors.
Erpencita Ayap, a senior citizen from the Bagobo Tagabawa community, shared, “Isip usa ka senior citizen, dili kanunay sayon ang pagkuha og medikal nga pag-atiman nga akong gikinahanglan. Ang libre nga mga check-up ug mga tambal nga gihatag atol sa medical mission dako kaayong tabang. Mapasalamaton gyud kaayo ko sa Hedcor ug Aboitiz Foundation sa ilang suporta (As a senior citizen, it’s not always easy to get the medical care I need. The free check-ups and medicines provided during this mission have been a great help. I’m truly grateful to Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation for their support).”
“Mapasalamaton kaayo mi sa gipahigayon na medical ug dental mission sa Hedcor ug Aboitiz Foundation. Kining mga serbisyo importante kaayo para sa among komunidad, labi na lisod alang kanamo ang pag-access sa healthcare facilities (We are deeply grateful for the medical and dental mission organized by Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation. These services are vital for our community, especially since we do not have easy access to healthcare facilities),” said Bae Dalia Agtag Pogoy, Tribal Chieftain of the Bagobo Tagabawa community.
The mission was supported by volunteer doctors from the Davao del Sur Provincial Health Office, LGU Santa Cruz, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples medical team, private doctors and dentists, barangay health workers, 39th Infantry Battalion, Youth for Peace Movement, and Hedcor employees.
“Making a positive impact on the communities we serve is important to us. This medical and dental mission highlights our efforts to improve the quality of life for the Bagobo Tagabawa community. We are proud to provide essential healthcare services to those who need them most,” said Rolando G. Pacquiao, Hedcor President and COO.
