After years of separation, three individuals who had been treated at Shelter of Goodwill Health Services in Magalang, Pampanga, and St. Claire Psychiatric Homecare in Bacolor, Pampanga, were finally reunited with their families. The patients, who had experienced mental health challenges, were brought back to their respective homes in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, San Pedro II in Magalang, and Manibaug Pasig in Porac, thanks to the efforts of the Angeles City Government.
Led by Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., the city government shouldered the cost of the patients’ health services and treatment during their rehabilitation. The city’s commitment to providing support for those in need is evident in their dedication to reintegrating these individuals into their communities.
The reunification process was made possible through the coordination of various city officials, including Lazatin’s Chief Adviser IC Calaguas, the Angeles City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (ACDRRMO) Rudy Simeon, the City Social Welfare and Development Officer (CSWDO) Francis De Guzman, and Gender and Development (GAD) Officer Mina Cabiles.
One of the most emotional stories of this reunion involves Estanislao Melgar from Nueva Ecija. Melgar had been missing for 30 years, and his family had long given up hope of ever finding him. His niece, Celine Melgar, shared her family’s joy and gratitude upon hearing the news of his return. She expressed how their family had resigned themselves to the belief that they would never be reunited with him.
In her Facebook comment, Celine wrote, “We had been searching for my uncle for so long, and after so many years, we had lost hope. We had accepted that we would never find him, so hearing this news felt like a great blessing to our family.”
Along with Estanislao, two other individuals, Ariel Ocampo and Maris Escala, were also successfully reunited with their loved ones. Ariel returned to San Pedro II in Magalang, while Maris was welcomed back in Manibaug Pasig in Porac. The reunions were heartwarming for the families who had spent years wondering about the fate of their relatives.
The Angeles City Government continues to prioritize the welfare of its citizens, especially those who face mental health challenges. The successful reunification of these individuals highlights the city’s commitment to supporting its residents and ensuring that those in need receive the care and assistance they deserve. The Lazatin administration pledges to keep this focus on social welfare and to continue efforts to help families and communities.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
