The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Zamboanga City Chapter successfully concluded its activities for 2025 with a major community outreach, providing essential health and support services to 180 underprivileged families in Guiwan. The event, held on Monday, December 22, 2025, was a collaborative effort with the City Health Office and other partner agencies.
Comprehensive Health Services Offered
The Guiwan Health Caravan served as the capstone event for the PRC chapter's year. It offered a wide array of free services designed to address immediate community needs. Beneficiaries received health consultations, vaccinations, and first aid lectures to empower them with knowledge. Practical medical services like blood typing, blood donation drives, glucose and sugar testing were also conducted on-site to promote health awareness.
Beyond Healthcare: Holistic Support
Understanding that community welfare extends beyond medicine, the caravan included additional forms of support. Through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda), residents enjoyed free haircuts and massage services. Each of the 180 beneficiary families went home with grocery packs and health kits, providing both nutritional and basic medical supplies.
A Collective Effort for Community Upliftment
The success of the caravan was made possible by a strong network of partners and volunteers. The activity was supported by Regine Saavedra, Guiwan Village Councilor Joel Liozo, and Jacky Lim and Company. Medical services were led by physicians Dr. Leeyhen Marie Baidiango and Dr. Fran Dagalea. They were assisted by a dedicated team including registered nurse Mylene Baidiango, and volunteers Julfa Pada, Bodelgardo Fernandez, Mitchel Columbres, Joy Araneta, and MJ Salapuddin.
This initiative highlights the power of partnership in bringing direct, impactful services to the grassroots level, ensuring that vulnerable sectors in Zamboanga City are not left behind.
