Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the chair of the Senate Committee on Health, has called for year-round medical assistance to Filipinos, criticizing the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for its “cut-off” system for releasing medical assistance at the end of the fiscal year.
"Diseases don't have deadlines," Go said, expressing concern over the impact of the DSWD's practice on indigent Filipinos needing urgent medical care.
He suggested allocating specific funds for the last quarter of the year to ensure uninterrupted assistance.
Go also pressed the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to fulfill its promises under the Universal Health Care Law.
The lawmaker highlighted several commitments made by PhilHealth, including increasing case rates for major illnesses and expanding coverage to include dental, visual, emergency and preventive care.
"We will monitor the fulfillment of these promises," Go said, stressing the importance of raising awareness among Filipinos about their PhilHealth benefits.
The also senator reiterated his commitment to serving the nation and advocating for better healthcare access, especially for the poor and marginalized.