The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) announced on September 24 that it has donated patient transport vehicles to nine local government units nationwide to enhance medical rescue capabilities in remote and disaster-affected areas. These donated vehicles will be distributed to local governments in various provinces to improve local medical transportation services.
Donation Overview and Beneficiary Areas
PAGCOR has donated a total of nine patient transport vehicles, benefiting areas including the towns of Mataasnakahoy in Batangas Province, Paniqui in Tarlac Province, Bolinao in Pangasinan Province, Norzagaray in Bulacan Province, and the towns of Bangui, Carasi, Dumalneg, Pagudpud, and Adams in Ilocos Norte Province.
Vehicle Features and Equipment
Each patient transport vehicle is equipped with a GPS navigation system, stretchers and securing devices, medical oxygen equipment, wheelchairs, and first aid kits. These vehicles function like mini-ambulances, capable of providing timely medical transport and initial emergency services in urgent situations.
Background and Purpose of the Donation
Alejandro Tengco, Chairman and CEO of PAGCOR, stated that this donation is in response to directives from the Office of the President, aimed at ensuring that people in remote and geographically disadvantaged areas can access medical services promptly. Tengco emphasized that these vehicles will help overcome geographical barriers and provide more timely transport services for those in need of medical assistance.
Typhoon Disaster and Emergency Response
The donation coincides with the aftermath of Super Typhoon "Nando" (international name Ragasa) hitting the northern Luzon region. The typhoon caused flooding, power outages, and other disaster situations, forcing thousands of families to evacuate. The donation of medical transport vehicles will play a crucial role in post-disaster relief and medical assistance.
PAGCOR's Ongoing Contributions
Since February this year, PAGCOR has distributed a total of 60 patient transport vehicles to local governments, public hospitals, frontline agencies, and military units nationwide. This series of donations is part of the agency's efforts to expand the scope of public services.
