A seven-day eye care mission led by key figures in the Bangsamoro government has brought hope and transformation to marginalised communities in Central Mindanao.
This project was led by Regional Parliament Member Kadil Monera Sinolinding Jr. and Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim. The lives of thirty-six ophthalmic patients, including those with squint-eye conditions, were offered services. As the mission concluded, its success underscores the importance of accessible healthcare services and collaborative initiatives in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.
Reaching Marginalised Communities
Reports from local radio stations revealed that the beneficiaries represented diverse ethnic backgrounds. They encompassed Muslim, Christian, and non-Moro communities residing in remote areas of Central Mindanao. For many of these individuals, access to essential eye care services had been limited, if not nonexistent. The outreach activity, therefore, served as a beacon of hope for those who would otherwise have struggled with vision impairments without proper intervention.
Continuing Commitment to Eye Care
Dr. Kadil Monera Sinolinding Jr. is a highly respected physician-ophthalmologist trained in India. He initiated eye care missions shortly after being appointed as a member of the interim parliament of BARMM in August 2022. His dedication to serving the community reflects a broader commitment within the Bangsamoro government to address healthcare disparities and improve the overall well-being of its constituents.
Collaborative Efforts and Volunteer Support
Officials from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) health ministry emphasised the collaborative nature of the mission. They highlight the crucial support provided by volunteers from Deseret Ambulatory Referral Center. It is a non-profit medical service organisation based in Kabacan town, Cotabato. Through their combined efforts, the team was able to provide free cataract and pterygium surgeries to many of the patients. This demonstrates the power of community involvement in healthcare delivery.
Restoring Sight and Hope
Among the beneficiaries were individuals with squint-eye conditions, commonly called “duling” in Filipino. Dr. Sinolinding and his dedicated team performed several delicate surgical procedures. Subsequently, these patients experienced a remarkable improvement in their vision and quality of life. Farmer Bernie Garde (Pictured) from President Roxas town in Cotabato was one of the beneficiaries. He expressed his profound gratitude for this life-changing treatment, providing tangible evidence of the mission’s success.
Looking Ahead
Dr Sinolinding has articulated his team’s commitment to continuing their service to the community. Soon after the Islamic Ramadhan fasting season, they plan to target 100 poor eye patients for treatment. This ongoing effort therefore underscores the unwavering dedication of the Bangsamoro government and its partners to addressing healthcare needs.
Expanding Reach and Impact
Additionally, beyond providing immediate treatments, the mission raised awareness about the importance of eye health and preventive measures within the community. Public education sessions, distribution of eye care materials, and screenings have been integral components of the mission, ensuring a holistic approach to eye care that prioritises education and prevention alongside treatment.
Empowering Communities
Central to the mission’s success has been its focus on empowering local volunteers and healthcare workers through training and capacity-building initiatives. By investing in the skills and expertise of community members, the mission seeks to create sustainable healthcare solutions that will endure long after the conclusion of the outreach activities. This empowerment also fosters a sense of ownership and encourages long-term engagement in addressing healthcare challenges within the community.
Conclusion
The recent eye care mission led by Regional Parliament Member Kadil Monera Sinolinding Jr. and Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim Sisa is a testament to the power of compassion, collaboration, and collective action in building healthier and more equitable societies. Thus, through exemplary efforts, these leaders have restored vision, transformed lives, and strengthened communities.
Photo credit: Philstar.com
