A doctor with a heart

Dr. Benjamin S.A. Campomanes, Jr. is the president of St. Luke’s Medical Center Foundation Inc. (SLMCFI)who heads the “Alaga” program.

At the heart of SLMCFI’s mission lies the “Alaga” program, a holistic healthcare initiative aimed at the marginalized communities across the Philippines.

The term “Alaga,” which translates to “care” or “nurturing” in Filipino, encapsulates the foundation’s dedication to extending quality medical services with compassion and empathy.

Through the “Alaga” program, SMLCFI endeavors to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility, ensuring that Filipinos, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location, have access to quality medical care. By nurturing a culture of care, the program not only heals bodies but also transforms lives.

RoRo crossing: The SLMC/SLMCFI Surgical Team headed for Romblon.

However, the “Alaga” program extends beyond surgical interventions; it encompasses a range of healthcare services designed to promote overall well-being.

The SLMC/SLMCFI team with their partners in Pambujan, Northern Samar.

This includes preventive care, health education and community outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness about health issues and empowering individuals to take charge of their own wellbeing.  Among these initiatives is the Basis Life Support (BLS) for Bystander Program, which equips community members with essential life-saving skills.  SMLCFI serves as the compassionate extension of St. Luke’s Medical Center.

Bringing St. Luke’s Medical Center’s expertise and culture of care to the underserved includes bringing much-needed medical equipment and supplies to medical missions

Accessing quality medical services in the landscape of Philippine healthcare remains a challenge, particularly for underserved communities.

Yet, amid these realities, SMLCFI emerged as a glimmer of hope, embodying a spirit of service.  “In our journey towards creating a more sustainable and inclusive healthcare system, we must always remember that every transformed life embodies the best enduring legacy of our compassion and service that defines us,” says Dr. Campomanes, my kind of doctor, one with a heart of care and compassion.  “Our commitment to fostering positive change and impacting lives with be what remains. It is only through collaborative efforts that we can truly effect meaningful change for a better tomorrow.”