ANGELES CITY The city government here is set to offer free cataract operations to visually-impaired Angeleños.

Under the “Aslag ning Pag-asa” program of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., and Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, senior citizens with eye problems will be given free treatments.

At least 21 patients have been treated since the start of the free cataract operations in November 2021 including senior citizens.

To date, about 132 patients are awaiting cataract operations under the said program. The pre-assessed patients for the free eye operation will be picked up from their homes by the city government thru the Gender and Development Office (GAD).

Initial check-ups for the beneficiaries are being done at the Holy Family Medical Center, the city’s partner health institution.

Since its launching in October 2021, 377 Angeleños have signed up and underwent initial check-ups.

To apply for the program, GAD Chief Mina Cabiles said application forms should be submitted by the Rural Health Units to their office. GAD staff will schedule applicants for initial check-ups to be assessed by doctors of partnered health institutions.

Chief Adviser IC Calaguas said application forms of residents who wish to avail of the health service will be collected by GAD staff from the six Rural Health Units and 28 sub-health centers.