Sta. barbara: A school-based PhilHealth caravan served about 200 residents, including learners, teachers, and parents, during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s visit to Sta. Barbara West Central School here Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Beverly Lorraine Ho, PhilHealth acting President and Chief Executive Officer, noted that the caravan was organized to enable non-registered individuals to register, update their records, obtain identification, and enlist for their desired YAKAP provider. The initiative aimed to cater to 100 students and 100 adults, including teachers and parents.

Dr. Ho emphasized the government's focus on prioritizing health, which is evident in their efforts to make health services more accessible to the public. Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Fatima Lipp Panontongan highlighted the importance of bringing health services directly to the schools, in collaboration with PhilHealth. This approach eliminates the need for residents to visit hospitals or health units, as medical and dental services, as well as medicines, are provided on-site.

During his visit, President Marcos interacted with beneficiaries of the school-based feeding program, distributing healthy snacks produced by Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp., a partner in government research and development for food security. The program is crucial for 385 learner-beneficiaries this school year, 183 of whom are classified as wasted and severely wasted. The beneficiaries, primarily Kindergarten and Grade 1 learners, receive nutritious meals for 180 to 200 days, which is vital for their health, attendance, and classroom retention.

Residents expressed gratitude for the PhilHealth caravan. Rodolfo De Jesus Jr. appreciated the efficiency of the process and the provision of free maintenance medicines. Corazon Zamora found the caravan convenient, as it allowed her to transact with PhilHealth without enduring long queues at the office. Mayor Carlito Zaplan also thanked President Marcos for his visit, acknowledging its significance to the town.