AROUND 86 children 9 years old and above in Barangay Anakpawis in this municipality of Cainta, Rizal province, recently availed themselves of the free circumcision services by the Cainta Municipal Health Office.

To date, more than 532 boys availed themselves of the services under the Oplan Tuli program that began on April 16, according to municipal health worker Consolacion Pablo.

Pablo explained circumcision is important as it helps prevent penile cancer because of proper hygiene. She added the minor surgery also decreases risks of urinary tract infection.

Louie, 10, (not his real name) lined up since 8 a.m. for the procedure and expressed anxiety over the pain. Like him, many children also believe the procedure will increase their height.

About 11 health workers composed of nurses, midwives and supervisory physician Jovy Javier successfully performed the procedure on the children.

Pablo said since Mayor Johnielle Keith P. Nieto assumed office in 2013, Oplan Tuli has become a yearly activity by the municipal health office.

Municipal Health Officer and Dr. Olga A. Abellanosa said they target 1,500 males for this year’s free-circumcision services. Last year Abellanosa said her office was able to provide such service to 1,197 males.