Health is indeed wealth. This is even more true for indigenous communities that have limited access to quality healthcare. Motivated by their shared core value of ‘malasakit’ or compassion, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), through its digital healthcare arm, mWell, and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recently partnered with Fr. Leoni Mission Foundation (FLMFI) to bring healthcare closer to the Umayamnon Indigenous Peoples (IP) community in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
mWell CEO and President and MPIC Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer Chaye Cabal-Revilla said, “As the country’s first and only healthcare mega app, mWell’s purpose is to make health and wellness accessible, available, and affordable to all Filipinos anytime, anywhere. Using the power of technology, we are committed to providing remote areas and IP communities access to quality healthcare. Recognizing that good health is very important for livelihood and improving the overall quality of life, our fully integrated, sustainable, and future proof digital platform will continue to be an instrument for our country’s sustainable development.”
The group turned over one mWell ‘OnTheGo’ package, a portable digital clinic in a bag that contains a smartphone and a tablet with built-in mWell app, health passes for free online consultations, a Smart Bro pocket Wi-Fi with load, and medical devices. The innovative tool enables the Umayamnon community to talk to doctors more easily, making healthcare accessible for IPs.
Far from major developments, ethnic tribes face difficulties in going to hospitals or clinics. “This will help us a lot in providing primary healthcare for Umayamnons who are often left at the peripheries because of distance and marginalization. We thank MPIC and Smart for their trust and for partnering with us,” said Fr. Ambrosio Flores, S.J., FLMFI Director.
FLMFI started its telemedicine program to cater to the needs of IP groups in the province. Through MPIC’s mWell mobile application, various communities can now consult with a doctor online without needing to travel to the city.
“The amount Umayamnons spend to get to the clinic could have been allotted for their basic needs. We hope this support will also reach other communities in need of accessible healthcare,” said Leane Ogade, health worker.
PLDT, Smart, MPIC, and mWell’s collaborative efforts to ensure the health of IP communities highlight the MVP group’s thrust towards achieving the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG No. 3: Good Health and Well-being.
