By GLENN D. TIPAY, EPS-II, SMN
In a remarkable demonstration of community-focused collaboration, the School Divisions Office-School Health and Nutrition Unit, led by Medical Officer III, Dr. Jeremy Calica, joined forces with the Philippine Dental Association, spearheaded by Dr. Gina Ocampo, to conduct a transformative medical mission in Sitio Tralala, Gordon Heights, Olongapo City.
The mission including dental services plus the gift giving was held on March 8, 2024 at 6:00 in the morning, was tailored specifically to address the healthcare needs of the indigenous learners at Sitio Tralala, an annex of Gordon Heights II Elementary School. With a commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of these underserved communities, the collaborative effort brought together a dedicated team of healthcare professionals and volunteers.
Dr. Calica, along with his team of nurses, Ruby Anne Bayla, Jane Chen, and Scherazade Alonzo, provided essential medical services, including health assessments, screenings, consultations and circumcision. Concurrently, Dr. Ocampo, assisted by Dentist II, Dr. Richard Elacio, and Dr. Williane Grace Cajudo, spearheaded dental care initiatives, offering check-ups, treatments, and oral hygiene education.
Assistant Schools Division Superintendent William Roderick R. Fallorin commended the collaborative efforts, highlighting the impact of such initiatives on the overall health and academic success of the learners. He expressed gratitude to both DepEd and the Philippine Dental Association for their unwavering commitment to the well-being of the community.
Dr. Calica and Dr. Ocampo echoed sentiments of gratitude and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in addressing the healthcare needs of marginalized communities. They reaffirmed their commitment to fostering partnerships aimed at creating positive and lasting change in the lives of indigenous learners.
The event not only provided vital medical and dental services but also fostered a sense of unity and compassion within the community. As the SDO Olongapo City SHN Unit worked tirelessly to attend to indigenous learners, smiles and gratitude filled the air, just how much of an impact these services have on the lives of the learners they have assisted.
The medical mission concluded with a sense of fulfillment and hope for the future, underscoring the power of collective action in advancing community health and well-being. As Sitio Tralala learners continue its journey towards improved access to healthcare, the collaborative efforts of DepEd and the Philippine Dental Association stand as shining examples of compassionate service and impactful outreach.
