PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco (4th from left) leads the formal turnover of brand-new Patient Transport Vehicles to five new beneficiaries represented by Benito Soliven (Isabela) Mayor John Paul Azur (2nd from left); former Parañaque City Rep. Gus Tambunting (3rd from left); San Pedro City Mayor Art Mercado (5th from right); Dr. Anna Ruby Gapasin of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (3rd from right) and PUP medical director Dr. Liza Yanes (2nd from right); and 2nd Lt. Cassay Marie Chua of Joint Task Unit Ilocos Headquarters (extreme right).
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has donated five new patient transport vehicles (PTVs) to various local government units and public institutions, further supporting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s initiative to equip every LGU in the country with emergency transport units.
The latest recipients include:
- The municipality of Benito Soliven in Isabela
- San Pedro City in Laguna
- The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)
- Ospital ng Parañaque
- The Joint Task Force Unit Ilocos (JTUI) Headquarters
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said the donation reflects the agency’s commitment to enhancing the country’s medical and disaster-response capabilities in line with the President’s directive.
“Each PTV we turn over brings essential medical services within closer reach of more Filipinos,” Tengco said during the turnover ceremony.
San Pedro City Mayor Art Mercado emphasized the impact of the donation, particularly for underserved communities. “It’s a lifeline that will help us save more lives,” he said.
Former Congressman Gus Tambunting also highlighted the benefit to Ospital ng Parañaque. “With this PTV, we can quickly respond to urgent cases and provide critical referrals to higher-level facilities.”
At PUP, where thousands of students are on campus daily, the vehicle is expected to be a vital asset. “In emergency situations, this transport vehicle could mean the difference between life and death,” said Dr. Anna Ruby Gapasin.
For the Joint Task Force Unit Ilocos, 2nd Lt. Cassay Marie Chua said the PTV will significantly support their humanitarian efforts and disaster-response operations. “It enhances our medical mobility and ensures timely assistance during calamities.”
Since launching the program in February, PAGCOR has distributed 35 PTVs to LGUs, hospitals, and key frontline agencies to promote safe and efficient medical transport nationwide.
This initiative is part of a broader effort, alongside the Office of the President and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to provide emergency vehicles to communities across the country.