The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has donated an additional 12 patient transport vehicles (PTVs).
These vehicles went to various local government units (LGUs) and an Army division at the PAGCOR Corporate Office in Pasay City.
Each PTV is equipped with life-saving medical equipment, including a stretcher, oxygen tanks, a wheelchair, first aid kits and advanced navigation systems.
Ruel Molina, Kumalarang Mayor, said: “First, we thank President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for giving attention to local governments. This is a big deal for us.
“To PAGCOR, thank you very much for not letting us down. Our dream is to have a PTV, and this is proof that assistance is being provided to those in need through a proper process, without any political interference.”
At the time of writing, PAGCOR has donated 182 PTV units to cities, municipalities, and national government agencies nationwide.
Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO, said: “These PTVs are meant to help our local governments and frontline agencies respond more efficiently to medical emergencies.
“Through this program, PAGCOR fulfils the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to help bring essential health services closer to our people, especially in areas where access remains a challenge.”
Outside of donating PTVs, PAGCOR is committed to improving infrastructure and facilities across the country.
Last month, PAGCOR pledged an initial Php1.37bn (US$22.8m) to fund the construction of 25 new public schools nationwide.
The organisation has also been instrumental in responding to natural disasters when they hit the nation.
Last year, PAGCOR donated both relief packages and financial aid to those affected by the particularly harsh monsoon season.
There are approximately 1,600 hospitals in the Philippines, with around 60% of these in the private sector
