ILOILO CITY — The Department of Health and the Iloilo City Government brought an entire health fair directly to the residents of Jaro II on June 25, 2026, through the PuroKalusugan Program Launching and Caravan. The initiative transformed Barangay Buntatala Gym into a one‑stop hub where essential medical, dental, and wellness services were given at no cost.
A Complete Health Fair in One Venue
Families lined up early to access services that often require long trips to the city center. Immunization stations protected children against preventable diseases, while the DOH Dental Bus offered free oral check‑ups right in the parking area. The atmosphere buzzed with activity as health workers guided residents from booth to booth.
Information desks covered a wide range of topics crucial for everyday well‑being. Parents learned about proper nutrition, family planning, and maternal care, while teenagers received adolescent health counseling. Booths dedicated to mental health, smoking cessation, and non‑communicable diseases emphasized prevention and early detection.
Pet owners also benefited from free anti‑rabies vaccinations for their animals, a service that drew a steady stream of grateful fur parents. Free medicines were distributed to those who needed them, easing the financial burden of common illnesses. The caravan ensured that no one was turned away, embodying the program’s spirit of inclusive care.
Reaching the Underserved at the Purok Level
PuroKalusugan is a flagship community‑based initiative of the Department of Health designed to bring healthcare to the smallest administrative units—the purok. The program aims to reach residents who might otherwise skip check‑ups due to distance, cost, or lack of awareness. By embedding services within the barangay, it removes barriers that keep people from staying healthy.
The Jaro II launch covered 13 barangays, including Balabago, Balantang, Bito‑on, Buhang, Buntatala, Camalig, Cubay, Lanit, M.V. Hechanova, Tabuc Suba, Tacas, Tagbac, and Quintin Salas. Indigenous Peoples in these communities received special attention, reflecting the program’s commitment to culturally sensitive healthcare. The broad reach ensured that even the most marginalized families had access to quality services.
Preparedness and Partnership in Action
Beyond medical care, the caravan included a Disaster Risk Reduction booth operated by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the Iloilo City Police Office, and the Bureau of Fire Protection. Residents learned essential emergency preparedness skills, from fire safety to evacuation procedures. This multi‑agency collaboration highlighted the city’s approach that health and safety go hand in hand.
The event was a showcase of strong coordination among government agencies and local leaders. Health workers, barangay officials, and uniformed personnel worked side‑by‑side to serve the community. Such partnerships are the backbone of the program, proving that a healthier city is built through shared responsibility and proactive action.
A Proven Model Now Expanding Across Iloilo
The Jaro II caravan is the latest milestone in PuroKalusugan’s rapid expansion across Iloilo City. The program was first piloted in Arevalo District in August 2025, and its success there paved the way for district‑wide rollouts this year. The Department of Health Western Visayas has set ambitious targets to reach hundreds of thousands of marginalized residents by mid‑2026.
City Health Officer Dr. Mary Ann Poli‑Diaz has previously emphasized that no single agency can build healthier communities alone. The program’s design recognizes that lasting health outcomes require the active participation of families, local governments, and national agencies. The Jaro II launch proved that when services are brought closer to the people, the people respond with trust and enthusiasm.
