Isang Hakbang Medical Foundation

Joint Medical Mission with MCPAA

On January 24, 2003, the Montgomery County Pilipino American Association (MCPAA) represented by it President Mrs. Remy Cabrera arrived in Tarlac City to lend its support for a Medical mission. The mission, a joint project of the Isang Hakbang Medical Foundation (IHMF), the MCPAA and the Soroptimist International of Tarlac (SIT) was held at Barangay Batang-Batang, a Barangay that had been adopted by the IHMF.

The day started with the arrival at 11:00 am of Remy Cabrera and her husband Pio "Ding" Cabrera at the StarBucks Café at Luisita Park. They were met by Dra. Patrocinio J. Talon, President of IHMF, Mrs. Nimia Ocampo, Vice-President and Mrs. Lydia Co, Treasurer. Also on hand to meet them were Mrs. Merlyn Sicangco and Mrs. Tess Liwanag. The group then proceeded to Barangay Batang-Batang where they were being anxiously awaited by the residents. Mrs. Yoy Pascual, Current President of SIT, President-Elect Malou Javier and several other members of SIT met them there. Medical Services were provided by Dra. Rhodora Mangahas, Dr. Raymond Talon, Dr. Manuel Yu, Dr. Dave Sanchez and Dra. Susan Caseria. There were also several nurses from the Talon General Hospital to lend a helping hand. Overall 270 patients were treated and provided with free medicine. A few were advised to proceed to town for some additional diagnostic procedures.

After the last patient had been seen, Mrs. Cabrera presented Dra. Talon two checks for a total of $1000.00 representing the MCPAA donation to IHMF. After that, the group was treated to a dance number and a native meal at the home of the Barangay Captain, courtesy of SIT and the people of the Barangay.

It was a successful affair, for the patients and for all participants. A bond had been established between the IHMF, MCPAA and SIT, organizations that have one goal in common, the alleviation of suffering and the up lifting of the living conditions of our indigent fellowmen.