The Provincial Government of Pampanga is strengthening preventive healthcare services at the grassroots level through the continued deployment of Nanay Community Workers (NCWs) across barangays in the province.

Led by Lilia Pineda, the initiative aims to improve early detection of illnesses by mobilizing community workers to conduct house-to-house visits and identify residents in need of immediate medical attention and assistance.

The NCWs are tasked to monitor residents showing symptoms or health concerns, including lumps and other possible serious conditions, to ensure early diagnosis and timely treatment before complications arise.

Governor Pineda emphasized the importance of early intervention in preventing illnesses from progressing into more severe diseases.

“Pinapahanap namin ‘yung mga may bukol sa katawan. Kapag nakita agad, napapaopera namin agad para hindi na umabot sa cancer,” Pineda said.

Under the program, the provincial government shoulders the cost of necessary medical procedures and operations to help lessen the financial burden of indigent patients and their families.

Provincial officials said the initiative aligns with the healthcare reform agenda of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. under the Universal Health Care framework, which prioritizes accessible and preventive healthcare services.

The program also supports efforts to bring healthcare services closer to communities through stronger local health systems and grassroots-based interventions.

Pineda likewise underscored the importance of continued support from the national government in helping local government units strengthen healthcare programs and deliver direct services to communities.

Provincial officials added that the sustained implementation of the Nanay Community Workers program reflects Pampanga’s commitment to making healthcare more accessible, responsive, and preventive for Kapampangans, especially those in vulnerable sectors.