by Patricia Leigh N. Gonzales
Stella Maris Academy of Davao (SMAD) concluded its annual free clinic, providing medical assistance to over 50 children from the Sacred Heart Parish and Bo. Obrero area. Held on July 28, 2024, the clinic was a collaborative effort between SMAD’s Community Extension Services Office and a team of dedicated volunteer doctors, nurses, teachers, staff, and alumni.
The free clinic offered a variety of medical services, including check-ups and medication distribution. Children aged 0-10 were eligible to participate. The event was a resounding success, thanks to the generous support of the community, SMEMCO, local businesses, and SMAD alumni.
“We are grateful for the overwhelming response to our free clinic,” said SMAD’s Community Extension Services Coordinator Mr. Pepito Nuqui Jr. “It is heartwarming to see so many people come together to help those in need.”
The clinic was made possible through generous donations of medicines and supplies from various sources. Additionally, a team of volunteer doctors and nurses provided their time and expertise to ensure the clinic’s success.
The volunteers were as follows: Dr. Carmelita Garces, Dr. Eric Fabian, Dr. Lourrine Quidato, Dr. Gerrymie Lo-Cruz, Dr. Hara Fortolazo, and Dr. Jehanna Nor for volunteer doctors; Mr. Eric Tomimbang, Ms. Clea Angiela Bullina, Ms. Cherrilyn Tee, Mrs. Lourdes Bangayan, Mr. Kristofer John Caintic, and Ms. Sharon Yee for volunteers at the Pharmacy; Mrs. Boom Aportadera, Mrs. Fel Puno-Albao, and Ms. Lenry Filoteo for SMAD alumni; and Ms. Mary Grace Bajao, Ms. Sharmila Jean Bara, Mr. Reynante Binobo, Mrs. Imelda Bistal, Mrs. Sonia Camus, Mr. Pedro Carcallas, Jr., Ms. Rhodora Edullantes, Mrs. Vanessa Suzette Ferraren, Ms. Patricia Leigh Gonzales, Ms. Trisha Nickzel Lada, Mrs. Charisse Lagahit, Ms. Emmanuela Malaque, Mr. Raul Mindajao, Ms. Anna Rozelle Munar, Mr. Pepito Nuqui Jr., Ms. Jaela Daina Ora, Ms. Ruby Paclibar, Mrs. Annabel Palarca, and Ms. Faith Hycinth Reyes for SMAD teachers and staff.
SMAD’s annual free clinic is a testament to the school’s commitment to social responsibility and community service. The event is an important part of the school’s outreach efforts and helps to improve the health and well-being of the local community.