BATAC CITY, Ilocos Norte -- The Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMHMC), in collaboration with Singapore General Hospital (SGH), conducted a two-day free surgical mission servicing six patients here. Of the six patients served during the surgical mission on May 26-27, four of them were recipients of hip and knee replacement while the two others underwent free foot and ankle operations. They are all residents of Ilocos Norte. The patients were selected based on the guidelines for implants set by the Department of Health (DOH). Donations and the hospital's trust fund will cover all expenses of these patients during their admission for post-surgery care. The provincial government of Ilocos Norte, through the initiative and efforts of Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, made this first-ever extensive medical collaboration between the two health institutions. Under Gov. Marcos Manotoc’s administration, the health system has always been a priority for the provincial government, with programs and activities aimed at improving and maintaining the well-being of the Ilokano community. “Napakahalaga ang health ng ating [mga] kakailian (provincemates) as so we always say sa Provincial Government – a healthy populace is a productive populace – there’s no progress without health,” Governor Manotoc said. At least five (5) doctors from SGH have participated in the surgical mission. Dr. Marjorie B. Sierra, Officer-in-Charge of the Orthopedic Department at MMMHMC, expressed her gratitude to Governor Manotoc for the success of the surgical mission. "Personally, I would like to thank the Governor kasi a lot of this process wouldn't have been possible if hindi niya kami natulungan. From securing permits to preparing logistically, he has been of great help,” Sierra said. She highlighted that the knowledge and expertise imparted to our local doctors during this undertaking are their most significant gains, as it helps them enhance our healthcare services, which are expected to benefit the Ilokano community. Meanwhile, Dr. Darren Tay, an orthopedist at SGH, hopes to maintain close ties with Ilocos Norte, particularly MMMHMC, for the mutual gain of both hospitals. In a report from the Communications and Media Office (CMO) of the capitol, it said that the SGH is the largest acute care tertiary hospital in Singapore, with over 50 clinical specialties, emphasizing patient-centered care and comprehensive healthcare services, and is a leader in medical education and research.