Over 7,000 residents of Barangay Sta. Rita in Batangas are in line to benefit from freshly upgraded healthcare services, thanks to AP Renewables Inc. (APRI)’s 14th Adopt-a-Health Center project — an initiative that emphasizes the important role of infrastructure development in boosting rural health outcomes.
The newly enhanced health center, unveiled in a ceremony in March, features upgraded facilities, modernized medical equipment, and enhanced capabilities for healthcare workers, AboitizPower, APRI’s parent firm, said on its website.
The new facilities include an examination bed, an oxygen tank with regulator, adult and infant weighing scales, a glucometer, test strips, and lancets. Maintenance medicines for hypertension and diabetes, along with over-the-counter treatments for fever, cough, and colds, were also provided.
To improve comfort and patient experience, the donation included a two-horsepower split-type air conditioner, a breastfeeding chair, and new office furniture.
Funding was made possible by Aboitiz Foundation and Barangay San Felix’s share from the Energy Regulation Fund 1-94. The improvements prioritize vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, senior citizens, and young children.
In his remarks, APRI MakBan Vice President for Facility Antonio B. Layog Jr. emphasized the importance of community collaboration.
“Ang mga proyektong tulad nito, kung saan mina-maximize natin ang paggamit ng pondo mula sa inyong ER 1-94 at aming mga CSR initiatives, ay isang patunay ng ating matibay na samahan at pagtutulungan,” Layog said.
Barangay San Felix Captain Gerry Punzalan expressed gratitude for the project and its impact on residents.
“Lahat ng assistance na nanggagaling sa APRI ay aming pinangangalagaan. Ang lahat ng pangangailangan na ibinigay ninyo sa amin sa Health ay papakinabangan ng bawat mamamayan ng Barangay San Felix,” he said.
Rural health centers in the Philippines often have to struggle with old equipment and limited resources, impacting the quality and speed of their services. Projects like APRI’s not only renew physical spaces but also help regain that public trust and confidence in local health services — an essential, if not often overlooked, part of long-term wellness.
Barangay Sta. Rita residents expressed high optimism that the upgraded center would allow faster diagnosis, more reliable treatments, and better preventive care programs- especially for vulnerable groups like young children and the elderly.
With its 14th health center adopted, APRI is signaling a long-term commitment to community development — one that recognizes that progress is measured not only in megawatts and profits but also in healthier and more resilient communities. Three more health centers are expected to be inaugurated by April 2025.
As the country grapples with systemic healthcare challenges, the lesson from Barangay Sta. Rita is clear: meaningful change often starts not with sweeping reforms, but with a single, well-supported community center. Change begins at homes.
What do you think of APRI’s initiative? What other communities need their support and attention?
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Photo Credit: Aboitiz website
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