Free Clubfoot Care Arrives in Davao, CARAGA

Children in the Davao and CARAGA regions now have greater access to free treatment for clubfoot, following a new partnership between the Philippine NGO Council on Population, Health and Welfare Inc. (PNGOC) and The Maharlika Charity Foundation Inc. (MCFI).

The agreement, signed on January 12, 2025, at the Philippine General Hospital, strengthens efforts under the Philippine National Clubfoot Program (PNCP), supported by MiracleFeet.

Leading the signing ceremony were Dr. Benedict Edward P. Valdez, President and Director for Missions of MCFI, and Maricar “Chi” Laigo Vallido, Executive Director of PNGOC. Other attendees included Dr. Rossalyn Flores, President of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of the Philippines, Ms. Shalimar G. Ilejay, PNCP Program Manager, and Elwyndasol Ranon, Administrative Staff of MCFI.

Expanding Access to Treatment

The partnership aims to provide free care for children with clubfoot in the Davao and CARAGA regions, utilizing the Ponseti method, recognized as the gold standard in clubfoot treatment.

“We are driven by our mission that no child with clubfoot goes untreated. This partnership allows us to expand and bring services closer to affected children,” said Chi Vallido, Executive Director of PNGOC.

Dr. Benedict Valdez of MCFI added, “We are proud to collaborate on this program that aligns with our mission of bringing medical care to underserved communities. Together, we can transform the lives of children born with clubfoot in Davao and CARAGA regions.”

A Brighter Future for Children

The Philippine National Clubfoot Program focuses on raising awareness about clubfoot, encouraging early diagnosis, and building a robust network of partners nationwide. This initiative ensures families can access free, high-quality healthcare and treatment, offering children with clubfoot the chance for a brighter future.