The Impact of Public Service on Health Promotion

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A film and television actress, Connie Angeles, has put her acting career on hold. However, she remains a popular television personality, serving as one of the...

A well-known film and television actress, Connie Angeles, has made a significant shift in her career by focusing on public service. Despite stepping away from acting, she continues to be a prominent television personality, co-hosting the Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko program on GMA7.

Having previously served as a government official in Quezon City, Angeles now holds the position of Executive Director for Medical and Health Programs at the SM Foundation. Since joining the Foundation in 2001, she has been instrumental in overseeing the successful implementation of various health advocacy programs and projects.

Angeles became involved with the top-rated public service show in 1983 when she was asked to fill in as a substitute host. Recalling her start, she mentioned that being part of the program was a dream come true for her, as she had always aspired to assist the less fortunate.

Orlando “Orly” Mercado, the founding host of Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko and president of the foundation, has been a mentor to Angeles in the realm of public service. Mercado, a well-known journalist, broadcast executive, and former Senator, has been a consistent presence on the show despite his other commitments.

One of the main challenges Angeles faced was managing her schedule to accommodate her co-hosting duties. However, her dedication to the program led her to ensure her availability whenever needed, especially in Mercado's absence. She shared her encounters with patients who struggled to access necessary healthcare, expressing her desire for the program to reach more individuals in need.

In recognition of her contributions, Angeles was honored with the Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award at the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards in 2023. Her commitment to public service was also acknowledged in 1990 when she received the Best Public Service Program Host award from the PMPC for Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko.

The Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko television program, which marks its golden anniversary this year, has been dedicated to transforming the lives of the underprivileged through support, connections, and empowerment. With the establishment of the Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko Foundation in 1976, the organization has continued to provide assistance to indigent patients in need of medical and surgical procedures.

Partnering with entities like the SM Foundation, Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko has been able to expand its reach and impact. Through collaborations with various healthcare institutions and organizations, the program aims to address the healthcare needs of those who require assistance.



Source: Manila Bulletin
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