The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has initiated a three-day mobile health outreach program in Lamitan City, Basilan, aiming to deliver essential medical services directly to the community, with a special focus on coconut farmers and their families.
Bringing Healthcare to the Doorstep of Farmers
Running from Thursday, December 18, until Saturday, December 20, 2025, the initiative is a strategic move to bridge the healthcare gap for agricultural workers. Diosdado Espinosa Jr., the division chief of PCA-Basilan, emphasized that the program recognizes the vital link between a farmer's health and their productivity.
"We recognize the importance of health in ensuring the productivity and prosperity of our coconut farmers," Espinosa stated. He framed the mobile health service as a way for the PCA to give back to the community and guarantee access to quality healthcare services that might otherwise be difficult to reach.
Location and Available Services
The mobile health services are being conducted at the multipurpose hall of the Lamitan Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (Larbeco) located in Limo-ok village, Lamitan City. This central location is intended to maximize accessibility for residents across the area.
Espinosa strongly encouraged all residents of Lamitan City to take advantage of the free offerings during the three-day event. The services available include:
- Free health checkups
- Medical consultations with professionals
- Other essential health-related services
A Call to Prioritize Community Well-being
Beyond just providing services, the PCA initiative carries a message of preventive care and health awareness. Espinosa advised the community to prioritize their health and overall well-being, underscoring that a healthy populace is foundational to a sustainable and thriving agricultural sector.
This targeted health mission highlights the PCA's broader role in supporting not just the economic but also the social welfare of the coconut farming communities that are crucial to the Philippine economy. By addressing healthcare needs directly in Lamitan City, the authority aims to foster a healthier, more resilient workforce.
