CALOY CUT?: Iloilo health office uses Yulo’s feats to promote free vasectomies

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

In celebration of Family Planning Month, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) and the Iloilo Provincial Government Family Planning Training Center (iFPTC) have launched a campaign offering free no-scalpel vasectomies.

The initiative leverages the recent achievements of two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos “Caloy” Yulo to promote reproductive health services and modern family planning methods in the province.

Announced via Facebook on Tuesday, August 6, the campaign quickly gained traction, amassing over 600 shares.

The IPHO’s announcement, which initially targeted male Ilonggos named Carlos in honor of Yulo’s victories, read: “Congratulations Carlos Yulo! Iloilo Provincial Health Office and its iFPTC celebrate with you! To celebrate your Paris 2024 Olympics victory, Iloilo PHO and its partners will offer FREE No-Scalpel Vasectomy to all Ilonggos!…Panalo si Carlos Yulo, Panalo ang Pamilyang Planado! Tara, Usap Tayo sa Family Planning!”

Positive Response and Challenges

The unique approach sparked significant interest, with 15 men expressing willingness to undergo the procedure.

“We have 15 interested clients who are willing to undergo vasectomy now compared to previous years because it has actually caught attention,” said IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon.

“However, there are a few negative interpretations which we can’t control, but the intention [of the campaign] is good. We are happy with his [Carlos Yulo] achievement and that’s why we congratulate him.”

Despite some initial backlash, the IPHO adjusted its messaging to ensure a broader and more inclusive appeal.

The campaign continues to emphasize the importance of planned parenthood and access to safe contraceptive options.

Comprehensive Family Planning Services

Alongside the no-scalpel vasectomy services, the IPHO is also providing free Implanon and intrauterine devices (IUD) at various health centers across Iloilo.

These services are part of a broader initiative to enhance reproductive health services in the province, ensuring that families have access to effective contraceptive options.

Yulo’s Historic Achievements

Carlos Yulo, who made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by becoming the first Filipino to win two gold medals at a single Olympics, has become a source of inspiration.

Yulo secured victories in the men’s artistic gymnastics individual floor and vault finals, following in the footsteps of weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, who won the first Olympic gold for the Philippines in 2020.

How to Avail Services

Those interested in availing of the free no-scalpel vasectomy or other modern family planning methods can contact the IPHO through email at ipgfptc@gmail.com, mobile at 0969-499-5423, or coordinate with the nearest health center for assistance.

The IPHO’s innovative campaign underscores the intersection of sports achievements and public health advocacy, demonstrating how high-profile successes can be harnessed to promote essential health services.