MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday vowed to ensure accessible medical care for every Filipino as he reiterated his strong commitment to prioritizing the healthcare system in the Philippines.
“Number one talaga, number one para sa akin sa priority na ginagawa ng pamahalaan ‘yung healthcare,” President Marcos said in his latest vlog, responding to a comment from a netizen about the “Zero Billing” gift.
On his birthday, Sept. 13, the Chief Executive ordered the Department of Health (DOH) to cover the costs of all inpatient, outpatient, and emergency services in 22 public hospitals nationwide through “Zero Billing.”
Netizen Adrianne Bianca said the government should prioritize the health and well-being of Filipinos through Universal Healthcare. She said the “Zero Billing” is a big help and should be implemented on a daily basis.
President Marcos recognized Bianca’s sentiments, saying the government will be relentless in pursuing a globally competitive healthcare system for Filipinos, especially the underprivileged.
Responding to netizen Alicarl Limas Apolinaria, who thanked the President for his efforts but described the “Zero Billing” as a band-aid solution, President Marcos said he also wished for the daily implementation of Zero Billing.
“Maraming, maraming pangangailangan ang bawat isang Pilipino at ginagawa naming lahat… kahit papano… Hindi natin mabubuo lahat ‘yan ngunit gagawin naming ‘yan lahat para talagang malaking bawas sa bigat na dala,” he added.
President Marcos celebrated his birthday on Sept. 13 by implementing “Zero Billing” in 22 public hospitals in the Philippines and extending government services and financial assistance to farmers and fisherfolk, among others. (PND)
