The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) has solidified its commitment to community service with a monumental P8 million donation of medical equipment to the Naga City General Hospital (NCGH), specifically targeted to upgrade the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Led by LDS Naga-Philippine Stake President Michael Diaz, the donation is described as a vital lifeline for the city’s most vulnerable citizens—premature and critically ill newborns.
A Legacy of Compassion
City officials and hospital administration hailed the Church’s move as an act of “genuine generosity” that provides hope to destitute families who rely on public healthcare. The donation is viewed not merely as a transfer of assets, but as a continuation of the LDS Church’s enduring legacy of compassion and service to communities across the Philippines.
According to hospital leadership, including Chief of Hospital Dr. Joseph Sanchez and Assistant Chief Dr. Jamela Mangente, this contribution significantly elevates the facility’s standard of care.
Transforming Neonatal Care
The Church’s contribution addresses critical gaps in the hospital’s resources. The P8 million package includes state-of-the-art technology designed to safeguard infants during their most fragile moments:
- Radiant Warmers (5 units): Essential for thermoregulation, these provide controlled heat to newborns immediately after birth or during medical procedures.
- Incubators (3 units): These enclosed, temperature-regulated environments are crucial for the survival of premature infants, maintaining the necessary body heat and humidity.
- Neonatal Patient Monitors (8 units) & Central Monitor (1 unit): This advanced monitoring system allows medical staff to track heart rates, oxygen levels, and blood pressure continuously, enabling faster responses to emergencies.
- Phototherapy Lamps (3 units) & Kangaroo Care Blankets (2 units): These devices provide life-saving treatment for jaundice. notably, the “Kangaroo” blankets allow infants to receive treatment while being held skin-to-skin by their parents, promoting bonding and comfort.
- Suction Machines (9 units): Critical for keeping airways clear and preventing obstruction in newborns with breathing difficulties.
A Blessing for Families
Mayor Leni Robredo, accepting the donation on behalf of the city, expressed deep appreciation for the Church’s support. She noted that these upgrades will directly improve the survival rates of the hospital’s “tiniest patients,” calling the donation a “blessing that will save lives and uplift families for many years to come.”
