Mindanaotoday.com | PhilHealth ensures 105 ex-NPA rebels’ access to medical care in Valencia
VALENCIA CITY – One hundred five former rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Valencia City are now members of PhilHealth after receiving their member data records (MDRs) and ID cards.
Delio Aseron II, regional vice president for PhilHealth Northern Mindanao, said government programs should be equitably delivered to every Filipino.
“You, our brothers and sisters—the former rebels—are our important guests here today. PhilHealth seeks to exemplify that we are one and equal,” he said during MDR and ID card distribution at the Valencia City gymnasium, January 11.
Aseron explained that due to the rising costs of healthcare, more people seem to be avoiding the care, checkups, and treatments of physicians. It’s not about fear of doctors, he said, but more of a phobia about hospital bills and fees.
“It’s tough to be ill. Our inability to cover expenses will typically need the government’s financial support. The important thing is that PhilHealth has a program, so our former rebels no longer have to fear visiting the hospital. Though each disease has a varied cost, depending on recommended medical test or treatment, we are certain that we already have a co-payer,” he said.
PhilHealth-Bukidnon chief Romulo Lapuz Jr. said the government wants all Filipinos to become PhilHealth members.
So, he told the last few ex-NPA rebels who hadn’t yet signed up to come to their office so PhilHealth could help them sign up and become members.
Marestela Bitago, a former NPA fighter, thanked the PhilHealth-10 team and was very happy about the grant from the government.
“Dili na mi karon mahadlok mag-adto sa doktor ug sa bisan asa nga hospital kay naa ang PhilHealth nga among kaabag. (PhilHealth is our partner, so we no longer feel reluctant about visiting the doctor or any hospital),” she said. (BGE | PIA-10 | Bukidnon)
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