Iloilo city: The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) on Wednesday turned over two Patient Transport Vehicles (PTVs) each to four Western Visayas provinces under its Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program during a ceremony at Casa Real here. PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles emphasized that the event signifies more than just a vehicle turnover; it showcases the successful collaboration between national and local governments aimed at enhancing public welfare.

According to Philippines News Agency, the provinces of Iloilo, Guimaras, Capiz, and Antique were the recipients of these vehicles, with their respective governors-Arthur Defensor Jr., Ma. Lucille Nava, Fredenil Castro, and Paolo Everardo Javier-present to receive them. Robles highlighted that these PTVs are crucial in improving access to healthcare by ensuring timely medical transport for communities in need.

During a follow-up interview, Robles mentioned that the PCSO has already distributed PTVs to all municipalities and cities, as well as over half of the provinces across the country. He credited President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for prioritizing healthcare, noting that they are in the final phase of providing these vehicles to provincial governments nationwide.

Robles further explained that the PCSO aims to complete this distribution to the smallest provincial governments before President Marcos's State of the Nation Address next month. The goal is to enhance the mobility of patients, allowing them to reach comprehensive medical facilities more efficiently.

In addition to PTVs, Robles announced the procurement of landing craft vehicles designed for island municipalities. These crafts will function as mini roll-on, roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels, facilitating patient transport from islands to mainland hospitals for advanced medical care.

Furthermore, Robles handed over the lotto shares to the four provinces and Iloilo City, amounting to PHP2.44 million, further supporting local initiatives.