Makati to give X-ray services to sister LGUs

September 13, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The local government of Makati will provide portable X-ray services to its sister local government units (LGUs) as part of its campaign against tuberculosis.

Mayor Abby Binay said X-ray is critical in the early diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis, particularly in rural areas where access to medical facilities, doctors and health care resources is limited.

“By sharing this device with our sister LGUs, we aim to close the health care gap, especially in marginalized communities,” Binay said.

She expressed concern over reports that there are more than 600,000 active TB cases nationwide.

Makati has received Fujifilm Philippines’ Xair portable X-ray system, making it the first LGU to have the device.

Xair is a 3.5-kilogram portable X-ray system that can be used in out-of-hospital settings.

“With this portable X-ray machine, we can bring diagnostic services to fellow Filipinos often overlooked because of their location or lack of resources,” Binay said.

She said the city government is committed to work with TB People Philippines president Ma. Eloisa Zepeda-Teng to strengthen efforts to fight tuberculosis.