Three out of four local government units (LGUs) nationwide now have patient transport vehicles (PTVs), with more on the way as part of the government’s push to strengthen the country’s emergency healthcare system.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the turnover of 124 PTVs to Eastern Visayas LGUs in Ormoc City, reaffirming his administration’s goal of ensuring every province, city, and municipality has access to medical transport.
“This is part of the continuing, shall we say, strengthening of our healthcare system… The most important thing for every person, ang kalusugan,” Marcos said.
The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), which runs the Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program, has delivered 1,297 PTVs nationwide, covering 75% of LGUs. Each vehicle is equipped with stretchers, oxygen tanks, wheelchairs, first aid kits, blood pressure monitors, and medicine cabinets to ensure safe and timely patient transfers, especially in remote areas.
Marcos said the program supports the Universal Health Care Act by making essential services more accessible. He also cited reforms such as specialty centers, cancer and dialysis facilities, and “zero billing” in Department of Health hospitals.
“By the end of the year, we will start already the second round… Patuloy lang ito hanggang maayos na yung ating sistema,” he added.
For 2025, the PCSO has set aside PHP1 billion to buy 395 more units, aiming to achieve full nationwide coverage before year-end.