Mobilizing LGUs, Communities to Improve Healthcare Systems in Rural Areas First Row, L-R: Asec Gerardo Bayugo, ZFF BOT Daniel Zuellig, ZFF President Ernesto Garilao, ZFF Chairman Roberto Romulo, ZFF BOT Reiner Gloor, ZFF BOT Kasigod Jamias, ZFF BOT David Zuellig, ZFF BOT Dr. Esperanza Cabral Second Row, L-R: Hinatuan Mayor Candelario Viola, Magsaysay Mayor Rommel Dela Torre, Cataingan Mayor Wilton Kho, Mandaon Mayor Kristine Salve Hao, Matuguinao Mayor Melissa Dela Cruz, Tinambac Mayor Ruel Velarde, Del Carmen Mayor Alfredo Coro II, San Fernando Mayor Eugenio Lagasca, Jr
Weak health systems, poor health-seeking behavior, absence of adequate road infrastructure, and lack of transportation facilities prevent Filipinos living in rural communities from accessing quality healthcare services, according to eight municipality mayors from geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).
In a colloquium hosted by the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) titled "Bridging Social and Health Inequities: The GIDA Experience," the mayors who also stand as their respective municipality's health leaders shared health challenges experienced by GIDA residents, as well as the reforms implemented to address those health gaps with the help of their local communities and ZFF.