Manila, Philippines —- An estimated 500 individuals composed of drivers from various transport groups, farmers, and Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) in Manila participated in the Department of Health (DOH) ‘PuroKalusugan’ program.
Under the program, the agency delivered medical services to these sectors.
Among the highlights is the ‘Yaman sa Kalusugan’ or YAKAP program of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), which aims to register beneficiaries so they can receive free medicines worth up to ₱20,000 per year from accredited YAKAP drugstores.
Aside from this, free consultations, check-ups, screenings, and laboratory services were also provided.
According to the agency, they believe it is important to introduce DOH health programs to these sectors, especially since they are among the most affected by the current crisis.
For Boy Vargas, National President of the Alliance for Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (ALTODAP), the DOH’s initiative is timely.
He said that being able to register for the YAKAP program is a big help, especially since they can receive immediate assistance from the agency in case of illness.
Meanwhile, Generika Drugstore, a partner of the DOH and PhilHealth, reported that many Filipinos have already received free medicines through the YAKAP program.
They noted that there are 54 types of medicines that can be provided for free under the program, as long as beneficiaries are registered and can present a prescription.
Several drivers we interviewed expressed their gratitude, saying they were not only able to register for the DOH program but were also given food supplies that could last for one to two weeks.
Health Undersecretary and DOH Spokesperson Albert Domingo assured that they will reach all drivers, BHWs, and farmers to bring primary health care closer to them, especially as they also feel the burden caused by rising fuel prices and other basic commodities.
Meanwhile, the activity was led by Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, PhilHealth President and CEO Edwin Mercado, Generika Pharmacy, and Feeding Metro Manila.
It was also attended by representatives from Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal, ALTODAP, Pasang Masda, Manibela, Motorcycle Philippines Association, and other groups and individuals.