President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday led the distribution of 129 ambulances to local government units (LGUs) as part of his administration’s agenda to enhance the delivery of emergency health services nationwide.
“These vehicles are vital resources to support our heroes in the medical field – our first responders – kasama diyan siyempre ‘yung ating mga healthcare workers, ngunit nangunguna diyan talaga ang mga LGU,” President Marcos said.
“They will provide timely medical intervention by transporting patients to hospitals. Many times, these vehicles make the difference between life and death,” the Chief Executive added.
The President led the distribution of ambulances or patient transport vehicles (PTVs) under the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office’s (PCSO) Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program (MTVDP) to improve the healthcare delivery system in underserved regions.
At the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, President Marcos distributed one ambulance each to 87 LGUs in the CALABARZON region, 25 LGUs in the Bicol region, eight in Central Luzon, six in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and three in Cagayan Valley.
President Marcos said the ambulances will provide swift and secure transport of patients to healthcare facilities during emergencies. He said the delivery of ambulances is part of his administration’s plan to consistently roll out free medical services and specialized equipment.
“While we still face numerous challenges in our healthcare system, this program aids us in elevating the quality of healthcare in the country,” President Marcos said.
“No matter how many hospitals and health centers we build, no matter how many medical health professionals we employ, and no matter how much equipment we acquire, it would all be devoid of meaning and purpose if patients cannot reach them in moments of need,” he added.
The President assured LGUs that healthcare will continue to be a priority of his administration, stressing that national progress is hinged on the health of the Filipino population in line with the Bagong Pilipinas brand of governance.
Each ambulance is priced at approximately PhP2.1 million and comes equipped with essential medical tools like a stretcher, oxygen tank, blood pressure monitor, and wheelchair.
President Marcos emphasized the program would address the need for medical transport vehicles in conflict-stricken areas, vulnerable communities, and geographically isolated and disadvantaged regions.
The distribution of ambulances also aims to strengthen the emergency services of government-run hospitals, as they play a crucial role in ensuring the timely and safe transportation of patients to and from medical facilities.
The Marcos administration has so far distributed 356 ambulances under the donation program. A budget of PhP2.2 billion was approved by the President for the distribution of 1,000 ambulances to cover all the LGUs nationwide, with the procurement process still ongoing. PND
