By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Deeply concerned over the high costs of medicines, House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS party-list Representative Erwin T. Tulfo and three other lawmakers, have filed a resolution seeking free leptospirosis treatments and anti-tetanus shots for disaster victims.
Tulfo vigorously asked his fellow legislators to support his measure in the wake of super typhoon Carina which has claimed 39 lives and 4.8 million affected persons.
Together with Reps. Ralph Wendel P. Tulfo, Edvic G. Yap, and Eric Go Yap, the hard-hitting journalist turned-House leader filed House Resolution No. 1811 entitled “A Resolution urging the Department of Health to provide and disseminate free leptospirosis treatments and anti-tetanus shots, through the Philhealth, for areas affected by Super Typhoon ‘Carina’ and other calamities.”
“In light of these challenges, we propose that PhilHealth step up and cover the costs of medical treatment for leptospirosis and tetanus. This intervention is crucial as it provides relief to those who are already burdened by the trauma and loss caused by disasters,” Tulfo said on Monday (29 July 2024) in his privilege speech.
The DOH has recorded 1,258 leptospirosis cases from January 1 to July 13, 2024.
It said the number of cases could still rise due to late reports, especially with the recent enhanced southwest monsoon or “habagat”.
Exhorting his fellow lawmakers, Tulfo said: “Let us reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our fellow Filipinos, especially those who find themselves in the most vulnerable positions. By addressing the medical needs of disaster victims, we take a significant step towards a more just and compassionate response to calamities.”
(el Amigo/mnm)
