The city government of Bago, under the leadership of Mayor Mayette Javellana, hosted the “Lab For All: Laboratoryo, Konsulta at Gamot Para sa Lahat” health initiative, led by first lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center Nov. 25.
This community-based health project, launched by FL Marcos in various localities across the country in May this year, aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to prioritizing the right to healthcare for every Filipino, the city said in a press release.
The “Lab For All” offers essential free healthcare services, including physical and medical examinations, consultations, basic laboratory tests such as blood chemistry and hematology, ECG and digital X-ray, and, free medicines.
This initiative is carried out through medical missions and outreach programs, anchored on the Universal Health Care Act, or Republic Act 11223, which guarantees all Filipinos equitable access to quality and affordable healthcare goods and services.
Marcos shared a touching personal connection to the city in her message, stressing that “Bago will always have a special place in my heart, my father grew up here.”
Recalling the fond memories of her father, Manuel “Manolet” Ledesma Araneta Jr., the FL said she would never forget Bago.
“The last time I was here was June 2024, when Mount Kanlaon erupted, it’s really sad to see everybody, kawawa. And then now, again, typhoon struck. I heard that three bridges collapsed and many families (affected), that’s why we’re here to try to bring a little relief to the people of Bago,” she added.
Javellana also stressed the importance of this health program. “In the midst of the challenges we’ve faced, ‘Lab For All’ has quietly become a bright light, a gentle but powerful reminder that we can rise above with hope and shared purpose.”
She added that the initiative reflects the kind of government spirit the local government unit aspires to reflect: “Sincere, service-driven, and grounded in the simple commitment to make life better and more dignified for our people.”
“Lab For All stands as a powerful reminder that health is a right, not a privilege,” the mayor added.
The event provided comprehensive services to about 2,000 Bagonhon beneficiaries from different sectors, who received medical assistance, relief goods, and AICS financial aid, among others.
There were also a Tesda exhibit, dental services from the Department of Health, and other services provided by partner-agencies and institutions.
Marcos also turned over medical equipment to the city government, including four ECG machines, three hydraulic operating manuals, four electric suction apparatus units, four drip infusion controllers, four three-crank hospital beds, and one portable ultrasound machine.
Javellana thanked the first lady for the support, noting that the donation will significantly strengthen the city’s healthcare services for Bagonhons. ||
