The La Libertad Primary Care Facility (PCF) has undergone a significant renovation, transforming a previously dilapidated health center into a modern facility ready to serve over 41,000 residents.
The initiative, led by BDO Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank, addresses the critical need for improved healthcare infrastructure in rural communities.
Eleanor Acabo, branch head of BDO Network Bank Negros Oriental-Guihulngan, witnessed the facility’s prior state firsthand.
“The paint was peeling and the whole space felt like it was no longer conducive to healing and recovery,” Acabo said, describing the crowded waiting areas, worn-down buildings, and poorly ventilated consultation rooms.
Moved by the conditions, she recommended the health center for rehabilitation through BDO Foundation’s program.
BDO Foundation said it has a long-standing commitment to rehabilitating health centers, having renovated more than 210 rural health units nationwide. This ongoing effort is supported by branches of BDO and BDO Network Bank, which identify facilities in need.
Despite the facility’s grim circumstances, Acabo noted the unwavering dedication of the healthcare professionals.
“Despite the grim circumstances of the facility, we saw the unfailing commitment of our health care professionals. They served patients one by one and ensured that all were attended to,” she said.
Primary care facilities are crucial as the first line of defense for communities, providing routine check-ups, immunizations, and preventive healthcare. These facilities often lack the resources for renovation, especially after natural disasters.
“We knew then that the town of La Libertad deserved more – better,” Acabo said. “A renewed facility will not only help provide better health care, but it will also serve as a glimmer of hope to our community.”
BDO Foundation works with local government units to renovate health facilities, aiming to best serve patients.
After months of collaborative effort involving health center officers, local government leaders and employees from BDO Foundation and BDO Network Bank, the La Libertad PCF was rehabilitated.
Similar to previous renovation projects, the goal was to enhance the experience for both healthcare workers and patients through improved interiors and exteriors. The foundation also incorporated a play area for children and a private breastfeeding area for nursing mothers, common additions in larger health centers to ensure comfort and inclusivity for all patients.
“The recently renovated facility is more than just a structure,” Acabo said. “It is an example of what can be achieved when people and organizations work together for a bigger cause.”
BDO Foundation said it remains committed to supporting health centers and strengthening the national healthcare delivery system.
Before the turnover of the La Libertad PCF, the foundation rehabilitated and turned over several other rural health units in Negros Oriental, including the Dauin Primary Care Facility, Mabinay Rural Health Unit, and Santa Catalina Rural Health Unit.
