Sen. Bong Go commended the Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) for successfully turning over Mobile Health and Wellness Services CaraVan on Thursday, 6 October, to the Department of Health – Davao Center for Health Development (DCHD).

The mobile clinic shall be used to provide health services, particularly in far-flung communities in Davao region.

It shall mainly focus on HIV program services, including the distribution of preventative medication against HIV, HIV testing and screening, and antiretroviral therapy refill, among others.

It is an initiative under the PSFI's Philippines Response in Optimizing Testing, Empowered Communities, Treatment and Sustainability (PROTECTS) project. The PhP3.8 million vehicle will have a full-clinic set-up with a laboratory, consultation and examination area, and a comfort room.

"In these modern times, everyone must be aware of how they can protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases, like HIV. I understand that some are hesitant to get tested, people fear rejection and discrimination from those around them, and they end up hiding their illness instead. But we must break the silence and let us continue to raise awareness," encouraged Go.

"No one should be blamed if they become afflicted with the virus, but instead, let us help them get through their challenges. So let us continue working hand-in-hand to combat this disease," he stressed.

According to DOH, the agency will be installing more medical equipment in the vehicle to ensure that more services are within their constituents' reach, such as x-ray machines and other testing apparatus.

Senator Go then expressed his confidence that the mobile clinic will benefit more rural communities and significantly improve the government's ability to provide quality yet affordable healthcare to Davaoeños.