Iloilo city: The city government has launched the Uswag Atipan (Care) Center, a one-stop shop for all government services. This new initiative aims to provide a wide range of services under one roof, making public service more accessible and personal for residents.

According to Philippines News Agency, the center was officially opened on the seventh floor of the city hall, with center manager Mark Ryan Acap emphasizing that it represents a promise of compassion and action in public service. The Uswag Atipan Center employs 35 staff members and provides a variety of services across different areas.

The center offers social support services such as assistance with case studies, welfare programs, mass weddings, baptisms, senior citizen cards, and grooming services. In terms of health and dental care, residents can avail themselves of medical consultations, maternity care, immunizations, prenatal services, dentures, circumcision, pharmacy access, dialysis, and laboratory tests.

For those seeking livelihood and educational opportunities, the center provides government internships, training, scholarships, and job placements. Additionally, burial assistance is available, offering caskets, flowers, tents, cemetery vaults, rice aid, and wake visitation scheduling.

Financial aid is also part of the services offered, with support available for hospital bills, medical tests, laboratories, and crisis interventions. The concept of this 'womb-to-tomb' one-stop shop was developed following Mayor Raisa Tre±as' community visits, where she listened to the needs of the residents.

All services provided by the center are free for Iloilo City residents. Plans are underway to establish similar centers in various districts to enhance accessibility for all residents.