CBCI Medical & Legal Mission 2023: Service, Support, and Community Impact

On July 15, 2023, the Maribojoc Cultural Gym in Poblacion, Maribojoc, Bohol, became a sanctuary of hope and service as Circulo Boholano de Cebu, Inc. (CBCI) organized its annual Medical & Legal Mission. This remarkable event brought together a diverse group of volunteers, medical professionals, legal experts, and community members, all united by a shared commitment to holistic care and community empowerment.

Comprehensive Medical Services

The medical mission aimed to provide an array of healthcare services, addressing the diverse needs of the community. The day began with residents eagerly lining up to avail themselves of the free services offered, which included:

• General Consultations: Skilled doctors and healthcare professionals conducted personalized consultations, covering a broad range of health concerns from common ailments to chronic conditions. Residents received invaluable medical advice, treatments, and medicines to address their immediate health needs.
• Operation Tuli: A dedicated team performed free circumcisions (operation tuli), a vital service for many young boys in the community. This procedure not only addressed health and hygiene but also honored a significant cultural tradition.

Empowering Through Legal Assistance

In addition to medical services, the mission offered comprehensive legal assistance. Recognizing the barriers many face in accessing legal advice, CBCI enlisted a team of dedicated legal experts to provide free consultations on various legal matters, including:

• Land Disputes: Legal experts offered guidance on resolving land-related issues, a common concern in many communities. Participants received advice on documentation, mediation, and legal processes.
• Family Matters: Sensitive issues such as inheritance disputes, custody matters, and marital concerns were addressed with empathy and expertise. The legal team provided practical solutions and emotional support to those navigating these complex situations.
• Labor Concerns: Workers seeking advice on employment rights, contracts, and labor disputes found invaluable support from the legal team, empowering them with knowledge of their rights and avenues for redress.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of the Medical & Legal Mission was made possible through the collaborative efforts of various partners and volunteers. Their contributions, whether in the form of financial support, logistical assistance, or volunteer efforts, were instrumental in making the event a success. Key partners and supporters included:

• Local Government Unit of Maribojoc: In coordination of Vice Mayor Boyet Castilla and Kagawad Maria Arlene Chiu, the local government provided crucial support and coordination, ensuring the smooth execution of the mission, and accommodation of the volunteers.
• Lite Shipping Corporation: Provided transportation and logistics, enabling the seamless movement of supplies and volunteers.
• BFP Region 7 Maribojoc Station: Assisted with logistical support and ensured the safety and security of the event.
• Legal Experts: The legal consultations were led by Bohol 1st District Board Member Atty. Benjie Arcamo and associates, including the young and talented lawyers Atty. Ray Anne del Rosario and Atty. Doreen Joy Monsendo, with the assistance of CBCI past president Atty. Jun Blanco.
• Doctors to the Barrios: Dr. Reina Juno Sumatra and Dr. Mark Johnuel Duavis provided expert medical care and consultations.
• Department of Health (DOH) Region 7: Offered additional medical support and resources.
• Maribojoc Rural Health Unit: Collaborated with CBCI to ensure comprehensive healthcare services for the community.
• Philippine Nurses Association Cebu Chapter: Provided skilled nursing care and support during Operation Tuli.
• Maribojoc Barangay Health Workers: Played a vital role in mobilizing the community and assisting with medical services.
• Bohol Provincial Health Office: Provided essential healthcare resources and support.
• DIWA Partylist: Offered financial and logistical assistance.
• Medical Supplies: From the couple Dr. Norman & Hazel De Asis, and Dra. Rowena Burden.
• Corporate Partners: Westpoint Pharma, Sto. Niño Review Center, Agahay Guest House, and Santerra Pharma contributed supplies, financial support, and accommodations for the event.
• CBCI Volunteers: A dedicated team of volunteers from CBCI worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success, providing logistical support, administrative assistance, and compassionate care to participants.

Impact and Legacy

The mission served hundreds of residents, providing essential medical care and legal assistance that would have otherwise been inaccessible. The impact extended beyond immediate health and legal benefits, fostering a sense of community, solidarity, and empowerment. The smiles, expressions of gratitude, and stories of transformation shared by participants were a powerful reminder of the mission’s significance.

Looking Forward

As CBCI looks to the future, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting and uplifting the Boholano community. Plans for future missions and initiatives are already underway, with the goal of expanding services and reaching more communities in need. The Medical & Legal Mission 2023 in Maribojoc was not just an event; it was a manifestation of CBCI’s enduring vision of a healthier, more empowered community.

Join the Movement

CBCI invites everyone to be a part of its mission of service and community building. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps make a difference. Together, we can continue to create positive change and build a stronger, healthier, and more empowered Boholano community.