Improving health outcomes in Mandaluyong City requires more than making medical services accessible—it also means encouraging residents to become more proactive about their health.
Mayor Menchie Abalos and City Health Officer Dr. Arnold Abalos stressed this during the recent Share the Alaga health activity, organized in partnership with Unilab and Watsons at Mandaluyong City College.
Mayor Abalos urged residents to take advantage of free medical check-ups and health screenings. “Our health is very important,” she said. “If we’re not healthy, how can we take care of our family?”
Dr. Abalos noted that many residents delay consultations because they prioritize work over health. “Even if they want to get check-ups, their priority is earning. Many are no-work, no-pay, so they can’t take time off even when they’re already feeling unwell,” he explained.
Some residents also rely on outdated beliefs or fear of discovering an illness. Dr. Abalos recalled one resident saying, “I don’t want to find out I’m sick.”
Collaborations with private partners like Unilab and Watsons strengthen the city’s health programs, allowing the local government to reach more residents and raise health awareness.
Hundreds benefited from the activity, including Racquelyn Acevedo, who said free consultations, screenings, medicines, and vitamins were a big help amid rising living costs. “Life is harder now. As we age, we have to take care of ourselves. Why wait to get sick when you can solve it proactively?” she said.
Share the Alaga complements the government’s Universal Health Care program by promoting preventive care and early consultation.
“Share the Alaga is a shared promise between Watsons and Unilab,” said Watsons Health Business Unit Director Cecille Marie Uy. “Today we continue to carry out this promise by bringing essential medicines and medical services closer to communities.”
Unilab Public Relations and Partnerships Head Claire Papa emphasized that public-private collaborations make health programs more meaningful. “Through partnerships like this, we reach more Filipinos and strengthen their ability to care for themselves, their families, and their communities.”
Unilab and Watsons continue to work with local governments, healthcare institutions, and private organizations to support sustainable healthcare initiatives that improve access to medicines, promote preventive care, and encourage stronger health-seeking behaviors.