By Lane Afable, News Editor
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on local government units (LGUs) to help strengthen public awareness on various government healthcare programs, stressing that many Filipinos are still unaware of the benefits and assistance available to them.
In his speech during the oathtaking of the newly elected national and regional officers of the Provincial Board Members League of the Philippines (PBMLP) at Malacañang, President Marcos emphasized the vital role of LGUs in ensuring that government programs reach even the most remote communities.
“The other example that we need your help in local government is ‘yung sa healthcare system natin. Maraming-marami tayong niro-roll out, pero ang problema, hindi pa alam ng ating mga kababayan na may ganoon,” the Chief Executive said.
The President cited the Zero Balance Billing (ZBB) as an example of a government program that still needs wider public awareness, saying, “nagugulat ako hanggang ngayon, kasi panay ang sigaw ko ng Zero Balance Billing at hanggang ngayon, hindi pa alam ng marami.”
The ZBB offers free healthcare services to patients admitted in basic or ward accommodations in hospitals under the Department of Health.
The President also highlighted the expanded Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) benefits, including increased coverage for dialysis treatments, cancer care, maternal healthcare, which he said needs to be further amplified.
President Marcos also shared that he continues to encounter patients complaining about the high cost of medicines despite existing government assistance programs such as the provision of PhP20,000 worth of free medicines.
“Tapos mayroon ‘yung may sector ng community, nagbibigay naman tayo ng allowance na every year PhP20,000 na free medicine. So, hindi alam ng tao ito. Kasi pumupunta pa ako sa hospital, sasabihin sa akin, “Ay naku, kasi napakamahal ng gamot.” Eh sabi namin eh, “Teka, hindi ka dapat nagbabayad ng gamot,” the President said.
“So, dapat ipaano (ipaalam) natin,” the President added.
