Nasrimah R. Sampaco-Fayez
The International Convention Center at MSU Main Campus in Marawi City was transformed into a hub of hope and healing during a grand medical mission held on August 8, 2025. Spearheaded by MSU-Main Campus under the visionary leadership of MSU System President Atty. Paisalin P. D. Tago, CPA, and in close collaboration with the Integrated Provincial Health Office led by Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Alinader Minalang, MPH, MPM, MSPH-MHA, CESO, and the BARMM-Ministry of Health, the event united dedicated healthcare professionals and compassionate volunteers to deliver transformative medical services to the MSU community.
The mission provided a comprehensive array of healthcare services, including free medical consultations offering expert advice and care, a life-saving mobile blood donation drive bolstering local blood banks, eye screenings safeguarding vision, HbA1c RBS screenings empowering individuals to manage sugar levels, thorough dental check-ups promoting oral health, and the provision of vital free medicines ensuring access to essential treatments, all meticulously designed to uplift the well-being of MSU constituents.
Among the esteemed participants were IPHO Doctor to the Barrios, the Philippine Medical Association-Lanao del Sur Chapter led by President Dr. Monasir L. Bantuas, Jr., MSU Medical Services and Hospital/Infirmary led by OIC Director Dr. Rimparal U. Ampoga, the Philippine Nurses Association-Marawi City and Lanao del Sur Chapter, the Philippine Dental Association-Lanao Chapter and IPHO Dentists headed by Dr. Artawan P. Indar, the Marawi City Health Office headed by Dr. Alinader D. Minalang, MPH, MPM, MSPH-MHA, CESO, Marawi General Hospital, and the Amai Pakpak Medical Center headed by Dr. Shalimar Sani-Rakiin, MPM, MSPH-MHA, DIPHM, CESE, Medical Center Chief II of Amai Pakpak Medical Center, through its Mobile Blood Banking Team.
Dr. Fatimah Zarah D. Umpa, RN, MM-MHOA, Chief of the Training Division at the Integrated Provincial Health Office – Lanao del Sur, delivered an acknowledgment of partners, recognizing the collaborative efforts that made the event possible.
Dr. Alinader D. Minalang, in his opening remarks, underscored the critical importance of accessible healthcare for all and expressed his deep gratitude to the MSU System President. He thanked the President for initiating the Medical Mission, for the provision of free medical services to the MSU community, and for his steadfast support of medical programs both within MSU and throughout the Bangsamoro Region, even prior to becoming President of the MSU System. “Ito ay hindi lang ngayon, kundi magiging umpisa ng mas marami pang medical missions at pagbibigay serbisyo sa ating mga kababayan.”
MSU System President, Atty. Paisalin P. D. Tago, CPA shared an inspirational message, motivating attendees with words of encouragement and hope. He also announced that the medical mission will be conducted annually and that more medical missions will be conducted in the entire MSU community, including external units. “Ang ating kalusugan ay pangalagaan natin, sa pamamagitan ng pagkain ng tama.”
Messages of support were given by Dr. Ali Dalidig and Dr. Monaser Bantuas. They both extended their heartfelt felicitation and reminded everyone to always prioritize their health and to avail themselves of the available medical services. They also emphasized that their collective mission as health professionals is to selflessly serve the people, expecting nothing in return.
A significant part of the mission was the handover of assistive devices, aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Amera-Maliha M. Ati, MPM, DIPHM, DPCHA, CHA, Chief of the Technical Services Division at the Integrated Provincial Health Office – Lanao del Sur. Vaisha M. Undac – Polaos, RN, RM, LPT, MANC served as the Master of Ceremonies, ensuring the smooth flow of the event.
The grand medical mission went beyond simply providing basic healthcare services; it served as a tangible demonstration of a deep-seated commitment to fostering lasting health and genuine well-being within the MSU Community. This commitment was brought to life through the collaborative spirit and dedicated efforts of various stakeholders. By uniting healthcare professionals, compassionate volunteers, and community partners, the mission addressed immediate healthcare needs while also laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient community in the long term.
