NABUNTURAN, Davao de Oro - The Provincial Government of Davao de Oro through the Provincial Health Office (PHO), offered a holy mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Arnulfo C. Tiplaca on July 14, 2022, as a commemoration of Saint Camillus (San Camilo) de Lellis, the universal patron of hospitals, nurses, doctors, and the sick.

St. Camillus was known for his violent temper, reckless behaviour, and habitual gambling. When he was wounded during the military engagement, the injury never fully healed during his lifetime, and it altered the course of his entire life.  

But where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more. He confessed and offered his life to the Almighty. He died in Rome on July 14, 1614 and was proclaimed as patron of hospitals and the sick. He also declared as protector of all nuns who care for the sick.

This year’s celebration with the theme “Hope and Healing: An Old Faith in a New Normal Life”, aims at strengthening faith and ask St. Camillus and Our Lady of Good Health to intercede for all the sick, all the frontliners, and all who are experiencing trouble during this global crisis.

Dr. Antonio P. Ybiernas Jr., PG Department Head, said in a statement that everyone has a chance to become like St. Camillus, despite his vices, he changed the course of his life and devoted himself to rendered service, ministering to the sick and dying, and helping other people, especially those who are in need. 

Program proper followed after the mass, where employees of PHO showcased their talents in a festive dance competition critiqued by Executive Assistant Edward B. Macapili and Claire Joy R. Gonzaga from the Office of the Governor. The festivity was capped with a shared lunch full of grace. (PR/ Davao De Oro Information Office)