Marcos to PCSO: Continue serving with courage, compassion

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday called on officials and employees of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) to continue serving with courage and compassion, reminding them that they perform a quiet but essential role.

Speaking during the PCSO’s 90th founding anniversary in Manila, Marcos emphasized that the agency, which raises and provides funds for health programs, medical assistance and charities, has been “a beacon in times of darkness” for many Filipinos.

The Chief Executive noted that First Lady Liza Marcos is a beneficiary of the PCSO because of her “LAB for ALL” project, which offers free consultation, medicines and basic laboratory tests to strengthen access to health care.

Meanwhile, to improve health care services, especially in remote areas, Marcos has committed to provide not just one, but two ambulances each to all local government units across the country.

The President made the remark as he led the PCSO’s turnover of 90 patient transport vehicles (PTVs) to LGUs in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Occidental and Northern Samar at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila yesterday.

PCSO general manager Mel Robles said they have completed the delivery of PTVs to Cebu and Bohol.

“So you said that (two ambulances), so that’s a promise,” Marcos told Robles.

“It has to be fulfilled. I will be embarrassed because I always announce it here,” Marcos added.

So far, 564 ambulances have been given to LGUs.

The government has set aside P2.2 billion to acquire 1,000 additional PTVs. –  Helen Flores