On 29 November 2018, The Andres Soriano Foundation received the donation of a customized mobile hematology and oncology treatment unit from Johnson & Johnson (Philippines) Inc. The vehicle is the first of its kind; a customized Mini Bus converted into a mobile treatment unit for the exclusive use of the Cancer Institute, UP-PGH, in support of ASF’s hematologic and oncologic programs.
“As a company dedicated to caring for Filipino families, we make sure to care for all our stakeholders in every life stage and every need state,” said Dr. Erwin Benedicto, Senior Manager of Scientific Affairs and Medical Compliance, Johnson & Johnson (Philippines) Inc. He adds, “With the donation of this mobile treatment unit, we hope to educate more Filipinos about the different hematologic and oncologic diseases, as well, as encourage them to seek treatment when necessary.”
“Blood cancer and diseases affect thousands of Filipino lives each year but access to healthcare and treatment facilities is still limited. With this donation from Johnson & Johnson (Philippines) Inc., we, along with our partners at the Cancer Institute, hope to expand the reach and treat more Filipino patients suffering from hematologic and oncologic diseases, and lessen the burden of Filipino families,” said Executive Director Lemia L. Simbulan of The Andres Soriano Foundation (ASF).
ASF is a non-stock, non-profit social development foundation established in 1968 to contribute to national development through the practice and promotion of corporate social responsibility. Through its cancer abatement and rehabilitation efforts, ASF aims to reduce cancer mortality and alleviate the burden of suffering imposed on patients, families, and communities.
ASF’s partner, the Cancer Institute, is the only national referral center for tertiary care, providing direct and quality patient services to thousands of indigent Filipinos all over the country. According to Dr. Jorge Ignacio, Chairman of the Cancer Institute and Section Head of Medical Oncology of UP-PGH, providing this service is difficult considering the overwhelming number of patients that come in everyday— 20% of which are cancer patients. He said, “This donation will create many opportunities for us at the Cancer Institute and our patients. Given the accessibility this mobile clinic provides us, we foresee patient care response to go up by 20% as well as an increase in productivity among our partner-doctors and healthcare practitioners.”
Dr. Ma. Angelina Mirasol, Section Chief of Adult Hematology at the Cancer Institute of UP-PGH also shared that, “The provision of the Red Van for the Hematology and Medical Oncology Units at the Cancer Institute will also create opportunities for outreach programs that will improve adherence to treatment through follow ups and other projects.” “This will help most especially the indigent patients who may have difficulties in tucking in transportation in their expenses,” she added. “In the future, this may even open doors for community-based research and training that will better the quality of care for our patients.”
The unit also provides access to educational materials about various blood cancers and treatments available. Managed by ASF partners at the Cancer Institute, the unit will soon be deployed to communities within Metro Manila, and surrounding provinces.