ODIONGAN, Romblon — The Romblon Provincial Health Office (PHO) is encouraging residents to avail themselves of free Dental Services offered in government hospitals and rural health centers throughout the province to improve oral health and prevent tooth decay.
Dr. Renato Menrige Jr. of the PHO said dental clinics are fully operational at Romblon Provincial Hospital, Romblon District Hospital, and Tablas Island District Hospital. These facilities provide consultations, tooth extractions, dental cleaning, fillings, and other procedures, depending on available equipment.
Although the services are not yet accredited by PhilHealth, Menrige assured the public that treatment remains free, funded by the provincial government.
Free dental care is also available at rural health centers in Odiongan, San Fernando, and Looc, extending access to residents in their respective municipalities.
The initiative is part of the province’s observance of Dental Health Month in February, which promotes proper oral hygiene and preventive dental care.
As part of the campaign, the Rural Health Unit of Odiongan, in partnership with the PHO, held a dental outreach program on Feb. 20 at Odiongan South Central Elementary School. The event, themed “Tara na! Cleaning at Fluoride, Sa’n Ka Pa?,” provided oral prophylaxis, or professional teeth cleaning, to 11 selected students with parental consent.
Organizers also conducted a drawing contest to raise awareness about oral health among children.
Health officials said they hope sustained free services and school-based activities will encourage families to prioritize regular dental check-ups and preventive care.