MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) to eliminate favoritism in the distribution of medical transport vehicles to local government units (LGUs), ensuring fair access regardless of political ties.
Speaking at the Quirino Grandstand Tuesday (10 Sept 2024) during the handover of 129 ambulances under PCSO’s Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program, Marcos stressed the need for transparency and equality in providing healthcare resources.
“I told PCSO General Manager Mel Robles, healthcare should not be politicized. When I was governor, those with more influence got ambulances faster, while others had to wait,” said Marcos. “That should no longer be the case.”
The ambulances, valued at PHP2.1 million each, come equipped with stretchers, oxygen tanks, blood pressure monitors, and wheelchairs. Beneficiaries include 87 LGUs in Calabarzon, 25 in the Bicol Region, eight in Central Luzon, six in the Cordillera Administrative Region, and three in Cagayan Valley.
Marcos reiterated his administration’s commitment to healthcare, emphasizing that the ambulances would ensure swift patient transport during emergencies.
To date, 356 ambulances have been distributed, with plans to roll out a total of 1,000 units under a PHP2.2 billion budget approved by the President.
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