STORY TEXT: The “Pamilya Pineda Medical Mission” sponsored by the family of philanthropist businessman Rodolfo “Bong” Pineda has benefited more than 17,000 indigents in Pampanga province.
Earlier this month, the mission served close to 2,500 residents in Barangay Tinajero, one of the depressed villages in the lahar-ravaged Lubao town.
The mission was spearheaded by Pampanga Second District Board Member Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab and Lubao Mayor Esmeralda Pineda, who brought teams of doctors and staff that gave free medical, dental, and ophthalmology consultations, as well as medicines to the beneficiaries.
One of the key projects of the mission is the distribution of free eyeglasses to elementary learners and teachers who have eye problems.
At least 12,000 eyeglasses have already been distributed to the identified recipients.
Pineda-Cayabyab explained that the Pineda family chose this project because many young students do not even realize that they have poor eyesight and this often leads to them falling behind in their studies.
The distribution of free eyeglasses to public elementary school teachers is also part of the project.
Pineda-Cayabyab added that this will not only help the teachers save money but will also allow them to prepare their lessons more efficiently.
The Lubao mayor emphasized that the mission does not end with consultations and free medicines. They can also assist with surgeries, if needed.
She said that all people have to do is register with their team and their doctors will determine if surgeries are required. The necessary assistance will then be provided to the patients.
