By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — More than 200 senior citizens in the Ilocos Region received free medical services, including pneumonia vaccinations, disease screenings and medicines, as the Department of Health (DOH) combined preventive healthcare with community activities marking Filipino Elderly Week.
The DOH Ilocos Regional Office, together with the DOH Wellness Clinic, Robinsons La Union, the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC) and the Provincial DOH Office, conducted a medical caravan on October 16, reaching elderly residents with essential health interventions.
Of the beneficiaries, 192 received pneumonia vaccinations, while 209 underwent screening for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and assessment under the Philippine Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Interventions (PhilPEN).
Another 48 individuals underwent laboratory examinations, and 93 patients received free medicines through the caravan’s on-site pharmacy.
The initiative brought preventive care and medical assistance closer to older residents, addressing health needs through a coordinated service involving regional and local partners.
In a separate activity on October 14, the DOH Health Promotion Unit joined the Provincial Health Office and the local government of Tagudin, Ilocos Sur, for The Search for Ginto ng Tagudin 2026: Lolo and Lola Edition.
The gathering went beyond a conventional pageant, recognizing the talents, wisdom and lifelong contributions of senior citizens while encouraging their continued participation in community life.
The two activities highlighted complementary approaches to elderly care: providing access to essential health services and creating opportunities for older people to remain active and valued members of their communities.
The DOH Ilocos Region emphasized that senior citizens deserve accessible healthcare, recognition and support for their overall well-being as they age.
IA/XF
