In July 2021, the Culion Foundation, renowned for its pioneering work in combating leprosy, expanded its focus to address another formidable public health challenge – tuberculosis (TB). Teaming up with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), the Culion Foundation launched its first TB-Active Case Finding (TB-ACF) program in the province of Palawan, specifically in the municipality of Araceli. Despite the ongoing pandemic, the initiative proved to be a resounding success, screening 1,178 individuals from July 12 to 17, 2021. This marked a significant milestone for both organizations, as Palawan held a special place in the heart of the Culion Foundation, with its roots deeply tied to the island of Culion and its storied history of combatting leprosy.
For decades, the Culion Foundation has been at the forefront of battling leprosy, dedicating its efforts to eradicating the disease and providing care and support to those affected. With a firm commitment to public health, the organization recognized the need to address other communicable diseases that continue to affect vulnerable populations, such as TB. Partnering with PBSP allowed the Culion Foundation to leverage resources, expertise, and networks to extend its reach and impact in combating TB in Palawan.
Palawan holds a special significance for the Culion Foundation as its name was derived from the island of Culion, which was once a leper colony during the American colonial period. The island’s history serves as a reminder of the organization’s enduring dedication to improving the lives of those impacted by infectious diseases. By bringing their TB-ACF program to Araceli, the Culion Foundation took a symbolic journey back to Palawan, reinforcing their commitment to the health and well-being of the island’s residents.
The TB-ACF program in Araceli demonstrated the Culion Foundation and PBSP’s effectiveness in implementing community-based healthcare initiatives. By prioritizing active case finding, the organizations identified individuals with TB early, enabling timely treatment and reducing the transmission of the disease. Beyond the screenings, the initiative fostered a sense of unity and support within the community, inspiring hope and resilience in the face of health challenges.