By: Gem B. Reyes
Manama: The Philippine Embassy in Bahrain, in collaboration with Al Hilal Medical Center Manama Central, launched the “Healthy Pinoy! Campaign 2024 and Consular Outreach Mission” On August 2, 2024. This event marked a significant effort to promote health and wellness among the Filipino community in Bahrain, providing essential medical services and fostering a sense of community care.
HE Anne Jalando-on Louis, the Ambassador of the Philippines to Bahrain, highlighted the long-standing partnership between the Philippine Embassy and Al Hilal Hospital. “Al-Hilal has been a partner of the Embassy in conducting free medical campaign since last year. We have actually done medical campaign with them on a few occasions in several branches. But this is the first time that we’re having it at this Al-Hilal Manama Central Branch,” she said. The event, which offers free blood tests from August 2 until August 31, includes a complimentary medical check-up where doctors interpret the test results.
Ambassador Jalando-on Louis emphasized the importance of preventive medicine, stating, “Health is wealth. How can we work if we are sick and if we have diseases? This will, of course, delay our financial resources. So we have to take care of ourselves, and preventive medicine is always the best.”
Ric Advindula, President of the Filipino Club, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Filipino community. “We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis, the Philippine Embassy, and to the management of Al Hilal for giving us this opportunity. It’s important to take care of our health and our community’s health,” he stated.
Dr. Amelito S. Adel, OWWA Welfare Officer, encouraged the Filipino community to take advantage of the free medical exams. “We are encouraging everyone to avail of the free medical exam given by Al Hilal every year in the month of August. We are here on the first day to check your membership, and you can also avail of the services of OWWA. But during ordinary days, if you want to visit us at the Philippine Embassy, we are waiting to accommodate you. ” he said.
Unnikrishnan SP, Head of Marketing and Insurance at Al Hilal Hospital and Medical Centers, shared insights into the campaign’s inception. “We had a productive meeting with Her Excellency, discussing the health issues faced by the community. Many people are not going to the hospital because they prioritize sending money to their families back home. We thought of creating an awareness campaign by offering vital medical check-ups,” he explained. These check-ups cover major health concerns such as uric acid, cholesterol, liver and kidney screening, blood pressure, and sugar levels.
The event saw an impressive turnout, with Filipinos arriving as early as 4 a.m. to avail themselves of the services. “We have arranged a second floor exclusively for the Filipino community for the blood tests. Currently, about 450 people have come,” Naufal Salahuddeen, Executive Marketing – Al Hilal Manama Central.
“The success and impact of the ‘Healthy Pinoy! Campaign 2024’ will be measured by the turnout and feedback from the community. The Philippine Embassy and Al Hilal Hospital plan to make this an annual event, with the goal of keeping the Filipino community in Bahrain healthy and informed,” according to Shafeel VN, Branch Head, Al Hilal Manama Central
The “Healthy Pinoy! Campaign 2024” is a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit. It underscores the importance of preventive healthcare and the commitment of the Philippine Embassy and Al Hilal Hospital to the well-being of Filipinos in Bahrain. As Ambassador Jalando-on Louis aptly put it, “We hope to maintain this partnership and continue promoting health and wellness among our kababayan.”
For the Filipino community in Bahrain, this initiative is more than just a medical camp; it’s a symbol of care, support, and a healthier future.
