ILOILO CITY — Bringing medical services closer to the people, the city government rolled out the Department of Health’s (DOH) “PuroKalusugan” program in three barangays in Arevalo district on Wednesday, turning a regional evacuation center into a mini health fair.
The pilot launch in Barangay So-oc drew over 200 residents from So-oc, Sto. Niño, and Calaparan, who lined up for free consultations, immunizations, nutrition checks, and even teenage pregnancy counseling.
A WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) corner, an immunization lounge, and a nutrition station were also set up to address pressing community health needs.
Dr. Candice Magdalane Tupas, the city’s Executive Assistant on Medical Tourism and Health Initiatives, said the initiative makes healthcare more accessible.
“Our health centers are open every day, but this is more convenient for our people. PuroKalusugan brings services straight to the barangay. It’s like a mobile consultation that offers much more,” she said.
According to DOH Memorandum Circular No. 24, series of 2025, PuroKalusugan aims to complement—not replace—existing LGU health programs.
It targets eight priority areas, including maternal and child care, adolescent health, nutrition, and environmental sanitation, all anchored on prevention and early intervention.
During the launch, stakeholders signed a pledge to sustain the campaign, which city officials said will be held more frequently to reach more families at the grassroots.
City Health Officer Dr. Mary Ann Poli-Diaz and DOH Western Visayas Assistant Regional Director Dr. Sophia Pulmones were among those who joined the commitment signing.
“It’s not just a medical check-up day. It’s a community-wide movement to make health inclusive, accessible, and preventive,” Tupas said.
With the pilot sites now active, the city government is eyeing wider coverage, signaling a stronger push for health equity across Iloilo City.
