Life Matters International (LMI) Executive Director Dr. Stefan Haller, together with Department of Health (DOH) MIMAROPA representative Dr. Catherine Rose DG Dela Rosa, accompanied by officials from the Puerto Princesa City Health Office (CHO), paid a courtesy call on Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron today, July 15, 2026, at the City Mayor’s Office.
The meeting focused on LMI’s proposed partnership with the City Government to strengthen the capabilities of Puerto Princesa City’s healthcare workforce through the Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Training Program for doctors, nurses, and midwives.
“We want to reduce maternal deaths. This is why even one ultrasound examination can make a difference, especially in remote areas,” Dr. Haller said.
Discussions also highlighted the clinical significance of POCUS in improving early diagnosis, enhancing maternal and emergency care, and reducing maternal and neonatal mortality risks.
“With this program, we will improve our prenatal care because it focuses on preventive care. Early diagnosis is always better,” Dr. Dela Rosa said.
During the meeting, the Department of Health MIMAROPA shared that it will prepare the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to formalize the partnership. The POCUS training for the city’s midwives is targeted to begin in early 2027.
The delegation likewise presented plans to conduct an ocular survey of selected city-managed birthing facilities to assess existing resources and ensure that the training program is responsive to the city’s healthcare needs.
Meanwhile, the City Health Office expressed its full support for the initiative, emphasizing its goal of making ultrasound screening a routine part of prenatal checkups to promote early detection and improve maternal and newborn health outcomes.
Mayor Bayron welcomed the initiative and expressed the City Government’s support for collaborative efforts that enhance the skills of local healthcare professionals and further improve the delivery of quality healthcare services to Puerto Princesans.
