The Department of Health in Ilocos Region (DOH-1) dispatched a fully equipped mobile X-ray van to Laoag City Hall on Thursday, offering services to at least 150 residents, particularly for early detection of tuberculosis (TB) and other respiratory illnesses.

The health caravan supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas vision for a healthier and more resilient Philippines through education, early detection and accessible healthcare.

“The DOH continues to promote early testing, treatment, and community action to stop the spread of TB through mobile screening,” Dr. Rheuel Bobis, DOH-1 communicable disease prevention unit head, said in a statement Thursday.

Sputum samples were collected from individuals participating in TB testing, and some were scheduled for follow-up testing to confirm TB diagnoses and start free treatment for those affected.

According to the City Health Office, free TB testing is done quarterly for presumptive TB cases and close contacts of confirmed TB patients.

Marcel Ramos, a beneficiary from Barangay Balacad, said he availed of the program to monitor his respiratory condition.

“Getting an X-ray is costly. Thank you for this health program of the government,” he said in an interview.

The DOH-1 aims to screen at least 17 percent of the region’s total population, provide treatment through adopting patient-centered care, and prevent TB by using shorter preventive treatment.

Bobis said the DOH-1 will announce the schedule for the upcoming mobile clinic once it is available. (PNA)