By Mariela Angella Oladive
The second district of Iloilo Province marked Pride Month with a significant community outreach initiative titled “Community Care: Pride to Share” on June 28 in Barangay Maliao, Leon, Iloilo.
The event provided essential medical services and joyful activities to over 500 residents from five remote barangays in the municipality of Leon.
Spearheaded by the office of 2nd District Congressman Michael Gorriceta in partnership with his wife, Dr. Kathryn Joyce Gorriceta, the outreach emphasized a commitment to community welfare.
“This event is very important because here in the second district, we have many far-flung communities that often lack access to essential medical services. Our goal is to bring these vital services closer to them, especially for those who do not have the financial means for regular medical consultations,” Dr. Kathy Gorriceta said in an interview.
Thirteen specialist doctors from Mission Hospital provided their expertise, catering to the medical needs of children and the elderly. Residents received free check-ups and medications, along with vitamins for both children and the elderly.
Laura, a 71-year-old resident, shared her gratitude for the free medical consultation.
“It’s good to have this [free medical consultations] because we no longer have to go to town and spend money,” she told Daily Guardian.
She was advised to see a specialist in town for her condition but expressed uncertainty about how to navigate there.
Similarly, Vertonia Cagbag, a 65-year-old from Brgy. Maliao, mentioned that she sought consultation for her frequent dizzy spells and expressed gratitude for receiving medication and vitamins from the doctors.
Meanwhile, children engaged in interactive games, received gifts, and enjoyed Jollibee meals. One of the highlights was the presence of the Yum Burger and the Jollibee Mascot.
“We invited Jollibee because we wanted even the children from far-flung areas to experience simple joys. Some of these kids didn’t even know the taste of Jollibee, which seems to be ordinary for many,” shared Dr. Kathy.
The Segundo Distrito LGBTQIA+ group facilitated the event, ensuring a lively and inclusive atmosphere. Local government officials, including Mayor Ma. Lina Holipas, Sangguniang Bayan Members, and Barangay officials from Barangay Maliao, also actively participated.
In addition to the medical mission, the third day of the four-day celebration included a separate tree-planting activity in Alimodian as part of the district’s Arbor Day efforts.
Cong. Mike Gorriceta emphasized the environmental aspect, explaining that the tree-planting was organized to combat climate change and preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of Leon. He emphasized the long-term benefits of such activities, aiming to foster a greener, more sustainable future for the next generation.