Posted by ReyFort Media
Filipino-Canadian Organization Helps Launch Much-Needed Eye Care Services in Virac
Vancouver, BC – April 2026 — The Philippine Bicol Association of British Columbia (PBABC) continues to demonstrate its commitment to global community service through the donation of two sets of ophthalmology equipment to the Catanduanes Doctors Hospital, Inc., (CDHI) located in Virac which is the capital municipality of the Philippine island province of Catanduanes in the Bicol Region (Region V).
This vital contribution addresses a critical need, as the hospital had been in the process of establishing an ophthalmology clinic but lacked the necessary equipment to begin operations and offer patient consultations. With the arrival of the donated equipment, the hospital is now able to move forward with its plans to deliver essential eye care services to the local community.
On March 18, 2026, following the completion of renovation works, the newly established ophthalmology clinic was formally blessed and inaugurated. The event was attended by CDHI leadership, including President and CEO Dr. Lubelia Sanchez, along with senior management, administrative personnel, and members of the medical staff.
PBABC President Lorry Gavieres Russell flew in to Catanduanes at the time to witness the blessing and official inauguration of the facility.
“This initiative reflects our shared responsibility to support communities in need. By providing essential ophthalmology equipment, we hope to help restore not just vision, but also quality of life for many patients. It is our honour to be part of this meaningful step toward expanding accessible healthcare services,” said Russell.
With the necessary equipment now in place, CDHI is currently in the process of recruiting an ophthalmology specialist who will lead and operate the new clinic, further strengthening its capacity to deliver comprehensive patient care.
Community leaders and healthcare advocates in the region have welcomed the initiative, recognizing it as a meaningful contribution that will significantly improve access to specialized medical services in the province.
About PBABC
The Philippine Bicol Association of British Columbia (PBABC) is a community-based organization committed to humanitarian efforts, cultural engagement, and charitable initiatives both in Canada and abroad.
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