In support to South Cotabato DTI’s 4th “diskwento caravan”, PhilHealth Regional Office XII recently set up its information booth for inquiry assistance and distribution of reading materials at the Rizal Park, City of Koronadal.

Issues and concerns raised by walk-in clients varied from personal to family health care needs.

Majority of the Sponsored members were happy to learn about the free check- up and diagnostic services that they may avail themselves of from Tsekap providers.

“We really don’t have enough to buy drugs for my paralytic husband every time he gets sick. His P2,000 monthly pension is not enough. I am happy that PhilHealth, through its Indigent Program, will provide once he is admitted in a ward-type accommodation at the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital. Now I know what to do,” Myrna C. Dellano from Purok Hillside, Barangay Sta. Cruz, City of Koronadal said.

As a dependent, she was delighted to note that she is also entitled to a discounted pneumococcal vaccine.

For additional provision of drugs and medicines during admission, indigent and sponsored members were instructed to see the social worker assigned in South Cotabato Provincial Hospital, as mentioned by Dr. Conrado Brana during the AlaGa Ka launching earlier.

Carol Joy B. Carcillar from Brgy. Carpenter Hill was also glad that PhilHealth gives priority enrolment for the orphaned and minors under its Sponsored program.

“My cousin and his brother are already orphaned and both are staying with us in the farm. The younger one wanted to have his own PhilHealth for emergency purposes,” Carcillar said.

Indigents enrolled under the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) who received the flyers were pleased to know that their coverage is extended until December this year. Those who are not yet registered are hoping to be included in the Sponsored Program.

Agusto Canlas from Zone 1, on the other hand, was thankful that PhilHealth provides Php16,000 benefit package for eye cataract extraction. Melanie J. Monroid, mother of an OFW, was gratified that her daughter can shift her membership category for the continuing privileges upon staying here in the Philippines.

Cyril B. Loyola, another OFW, left contented that he can update the contribution of his spouse and amend the member data record on her behalf.

Employees of NCCC Davao detailed in Koronadal for their “diskwento caravan” were happy that they got their new ID cards and member data records.

“This fourth caravan hopes to increase awareness in the local community that DTI helps ease the life of ordinary people,” said South Cotabato Provincial Director, Flora Gabunales.

She also encouraged more entrepreneurs to enhance their livelihood skills for their own future advantage. “The government is working for them but they need to do something in return,” Gabunales stressed.(END)(Hanah G. Naanep)