Nestled off the northeastern coast of Quezon Province, the island municipality of Perez is a hidden gem in Lamon Bay. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, abundant marine life, and the warm smiles of its people, Perez offers breathtaking coastal views and a peaceful, close-knit community atmosphere. Despite its natural beauty, the island’s distance from major urban centers makes access to healthcare a challenge—making community medical missions not just welcome, but vital.
In a remarkable display of teamwork and compassion, RID 3780 Rotary Club of Kamuning Central (RCKC) and RID 3810 Rotary Club of Raha Sulayman, hosted by RID 3820 Rotary Club of Lopez Quezon Premier, came together with the Red Cross – Lucena Chapter, the RCKC RCC Las Pinas Dental Team, and End Cervical Cancer Philippines Organization Inc. (CERVIQ) to deliver a large-scale Health Care Mission Project that touched the lives of 1,588 patients.
Heartworking President Riza Martinez of RC Lopez Quezon Premier led the mission, working closely with Perez Municipal Health Officer Dr. Elsa Dufourt and with the full support of Hon. Mayor Charisse Marie Escalona of Perez, Quezon. Mayor “CHA” Escalona’s leadership went beyond warm words of welcome—he personally ensured the mission’s success by providing comprehensive logistics support, including transportation, accommodations, food, and other essential needs for the volunteers and partners throughout the entire duration of the medical mission. His commitment ensured that the team could focus entirely on serving the people of Perez without operational hurdles.
A Day of Comprehensive Health Services
The project provided an extensive range of free health services to the residents of Perez, including:
- Pediatrics – for the youngest members of the community.
- Obstetrics and Gynecology – focusing on women’s health and maternal care including the speculoscopy-assisted VIA Screening.
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics – addressing chronic and age-related health concerns.
- Ophthalmology – ensuring access to eye care.
- Dental Services – courtesy of the RCKC RCC Las Pinas Dental Team.
Beyond medical consultations, the mission also distributed reading books to inspire learning and free toothbrushes to encourage oral hygiene.
Advancing Women’s Health Through Cervical Cancer Screening
One of the key highlight of the mission was the Speculoscopy-assisted Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) screening, conducted by End Cervical Cancer Philippines Organization Inc, together with the local midwives and assisted by Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) . This enhanced screening method allows magnified visualization of the cervix for more accurate detection of precancerous changes.
Out of the women screened, two patients were found to have suspicious precancerous lesions. Both were advised to return for follow-up screening after six months, following a course of antibiotics. If the lesions persist, treatment options include thermal ablation or cervical biopsy—a step that could potentially save their lives.
CERVIQ will coordinate closely with the local Rotary Club of Lopez Quezon Premier and Perez MHO Dr. Elsa Dufourt to ensure that these patients receive the necessary follow-up care and treatment.
A Model of Collaboration
This mission stands as a powerful example of how Rotary Clubs, humanitarian organizations, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups can unite for a common cause—improving access to essential health services in underserved communities.
Special thanks go to Mayor “CHA” Escalona of Perez, Quezon, whose unwavering support—from logistics and accommodations to meals and volunteer assistance—was instrumental in making this mission a true success story for the island community.
In the words of the different organizers, “Service above self is not just a motto—it’s a movement.” This mission proved that when hearts and hands come together, healthier futures are possible for all.
