On 13 June 2024, Health Futures Foundation, Inc. (HFI), in partnership with the Sun Life Foundation, turned over the Maasin Barangay Health Station (BHS) for the community of Maasin, Pura, Tarlac. The ceremony started with the invocation led by Maasin Pastoral President Ms. Irene Marzan and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem led by Maasin Elementary School Teacher Ms. Hanna Lee Toquero.

Maasin Barangay Captain Mr. Rolando Calura then gave his welcoming remarks for the event. This was followed by a short message from HFI Executive Director Mr. Pedrito dela Cruz regarding partnerships within the barangay that helps not only the safekeeping of the BHS but also the continuation of the Community-Based Health and Wellness Program. The next message was from Sun Life Foundation Executive Director Ms. Kristine Diane Millete, who talked about the importance of the program for the community and how it is worth all this work so that the community can have access to primary healthcare.

Other partners such as Ms. Maria Noel Lim, Development Management Office of the Department of Health Regional Office III, and Mr. Holden Sembrano, Representative from the Tarlac Provincial Office, gave their inspirational messages as well. The inspirational messages were followed by a surprise intermission number performed by the Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS), and Cluster Leaders of Maasin.

Pura Mayor Atty. John Paul Balmores gave his acceptance speech and wholeheartedly thanked HFI and Sun Life Foundation for the construction of the BHS and the implementation of the CBHWP as these helped elevate the quality of life of the barangay by showcasing the importance of health. He also promised to keep the health facility safe to the best of their ability. The next message was from the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) Councilor on Health, Ms. Marites Bandolin, who thanked HFI not only for the BHS where they can conduct check-ups and health programs such as deworming, immunization, etc. but also for the health trainings for the BHWs, BNS, and Cluster Leaders. The speeches were followed by an Intermission number from the Sangguniang Kabataan Council Group and the giving of tokens to stakeholders by the Pura Lpcal Government Unit (LGU). Next was the closing remarks from Dr. Ericson Marzan, Pura Rural Health Unit Dentist. This was followed up by the signing of the Deed of Donation, blessing of the BHS, turnover of the ceremonial key, ribbon cutting, and viewing of the BHS. Finally, the attendees of the program had the chance to participate in BLGU’s tree planting activity where fruit bearing trees were planted inside the barangay compound.

The construction of the BHS is part of HFI’s banner program, ALAGA KA – Alay sa Ginhawa at Kalusugan, that aims to create health empowered and self-reliant communities living in an improved, efficient, healthy, and organized locality that provides equity and quality health care.