More than 3,000 residents of Barangay Rizal in Panukulan, Polillo Island, now have access to essential healthcare services for the first time, following the energization of their local health station with solar power.
The Barangay Rizal Health Station has been equipped with a three-kilowatt peak (kWp) solar photovoltaic (PV) system installed by the One Meralco Foundation (OMF), the corporate social responsibility arm of Manila Electric Company (Meralco). The solar setup enables health workers to operate critical medical equipment such as nebulizers for asthma patients and fetal dopplers for expectant mothers.
Before the project, the off-grid community lacked electricity, requiring residents to travel hours by boat to reach the nearest rural health unit in the town proper.
“This health station is more than just a building; it is a beacon of hope for the residents of Barangay Rizal. With electricity, our health workers can now provide essential medical services without the limitations we previously faced,” OMF said in a statement.
The initiative is part of OMF’s community electrification program, which provides solar-powered solutions to off-grid public schools, health centers, low-income households, as well as projects that support water access, agriculture, and livelihood development within the Meralco franchise area.
In 2024, OMF also extended its efforts by powering a health station in Sitio Kolonbong, Barangay Lamfugon, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, bringing much-needed services to underserved communities across the country.
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