Early Care, Stronger Communities, SM Foundation Supports Health in Bacolod

In Bacolod City, where life is often celebrated through its well-loved delicacies like piaya and Napoleones, a quieter but equally important story is unfolding—one that focuses on health, prevention, and the need to start caring for the body at an early age. Behind the city’s vibrant food culture, local health workers are seeing a shift in the kinds of illnesses affecting residents, particularly among younger individuals.

At the Barangay ETCS Health Station, Dr. Dianne Marie Jamora has observed a growing number of patients in their 20s already dealing with conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. These cases, once more common among older adults, are now appearing earlier, often linked to lifestyle habits that include high sugar intake, limited physical activity, and frequent consumption of processed food. Left unmanaged, these conditions may lead to more serious complications like chronic kidney disease, underscoring the urgency of early intervention.

Responding to this need, SM Foundation has stepped in to strengthen primary healthcare services through the renovation of the Barangay ETCS Health Station. The upgraded facility now offers a more organized and patient-friendly environment, with improved consultation areas, better record-keeping systems, and easier access to essential medicines. These enhancements aim to make healthcare not only more efficient but also more approachable for residents who rely on the center for regular check-ups and treatment.

Beyond non-communicable diseases, the health station also plays a critical role in addressing infectious illnesses. Tuberculosis and respiratory infections remain common in the community, and the improved facility supports more effective screening, treatment, and monitoring. For healthcare workers, this means being able to respond more quickly and provide consistent care to patients who need it most.

Equally important are the outreach efforts led by midwife May Varca, who works closely with residents in Barangays ETCS and Mabini. Through regular visits, health screenings, and educational sessions, she helps bring healthcare directly to the community—especially to those who may not have the means to seek medical attention early. These initiatives encourage residents to be more aware of their health, recognize warning signs, and take preventive action before conditions worsen.

Education remains at the heart of these efforts. By guiding patients on proper nutrition, exercise, and stress management, healthcare providers aim to build long-term habits that can reduce the risk of disease. Programs like PhilHealth’s YAKAP initiative further support this approach by promoting accessible and preventive care.

In a city known for its sweetness, Bacolod is gradually embracing a more balanced way of living—one that values health just as much as tradition. Through strengthened healthcare services and community-driven education, a healthier future is taking shape, one informed choice at a time.