TUBOD, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--In the weeklong celebration of the 64th Araw ng Lanao del Norte, the provincial government showcased its devotion to the people as it showered them with an array of exceptional services and support through People’s Day.
Through a harmonious collaboration of national government agencies, non-government organizations, and the provincial government, a one-stop shop of various services has been set up at the Mindanao Civic Center gymnasium.
The agencies that brought their services closer to the residents were the Provincial Health Office (PHO), National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Government Service Insurance System, Social Security System, Pag-IBIG Fund, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Land Transportation Office, Civil Service Commission (CSC), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Philippine Red Cross, Department of Labor and Employment, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, among others.
"Overwhelming gyud akong kalipay. There were like 30 private doctors, naay mga dentists, and then a lot of national line agencies dinhi gyud sila, and it was well organized," said Gov. Imelda "Angging" Dela Cruz Quibranza.
(I am truly overwhelmed with joy. There were like 30 private doctors, dentists, and a lot of national line agencies present, and it was well organized)
The Provincial Health Office provides free medicines to residents during the People's Day. (ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Empowering communities through services
Dr. Cristie Joy A. Indoc, acting PHO, said the health services offered catered to patients of all ages, including children, adults, and senior citizens. Additionally, there was a nutrition corner to address the nutritional needs of children and combat malnutrition and other related illnesses.
Meanwhile, Osler Mejares, chief statistical officer of the PSA Lanao del Norte, said they offered services related to civil registration documents and national ID registration. They also assisted individuals who encountered any issues or deficiencies in their birth documents or any other civil registration documents.
Alona B. Carumba of CSC-10 shared that they released approved appointments from different municipalities in the province. Apart from examination-related matters, the CSC also provided assistance regarding special eligibility, such as barangay eligibility, wherein they provided free forms to individuals that can be used when applying for civil eligibility.
On the other hand, Connie Aranton Emborong, chief of the Licensure and Registry Division of the PRC, said they offered services such as the renewal of PRC ID licenses for all professions, as well as catering to name and status changes, provided that the necessary requirements are complete. For clients who encounter difficulties accessing their accounts due to forgotten passwords or usernames, assistance was also provided.
Moreover, Florife Hermosisima-Pabingwit of PhilHealth Iligan shared that they brought their membership inquiry system to assist individuals in checking their membership status and updating their records. New members aged 21 and older were able to apply for membership during the event.
The Philippine Statistics Authority Lanao del Norte offers services related to civil registration documents and national ID registration during the People's Day. (ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Heartfelt appreciation
Residents are thankful for the different services offered during People's Day.
Marciana Tamina, 69 years old, is thankful for the opportunity to receive a check-up and free medication, while Margarito Partosa, a 71-year-old resident, commended the provincial government for their efforts in providing essential healthcare services to those who cannot afford expensive medicines.
Moreover, Cornelius Talaid is thankful for PhilHealth for bringing their services closer to them, as they don't have to spend much on transportation or other related costs.
"Maayo kaayo nga naa na kini karon. Maayo kini nga magpadayon aron ang mga pobre nga gikan sa lag-yu dili maayo (It's really great that this is being conducted. I hope this will be continued so that the poor from far-flung areas will not be left behind)," he said.
The services showcased during the event exemplified the unwavering dedication of the government towards improving the lives of the people. The services also highlighted the government's resolute commitment to embedding a legacy of service and progress. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)