In a move to enhance accessibility to medical and hospitalization assistance, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is set to open its doors seven days a week. This initiative, dubbed ‘Isang Linggong Serbisyo,’ was introduced by PCSO Director Imelda Papin and has received the green light from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The policy is currently being tested in the National Capital Region.
Director Papin shared these developments during a medical and dental mission in Candelaria, Quezon, where over 500 residents, primarily seniors and children, received free health services. This mission marked the PCSO’s first outreach in the province, providing not only essential medicines and vitamins but also the expertise of pediatricians, nurses, and dentists.
The event was initiated by Candelaria Mayor George Suayan, who sought assistance from the PCSO to bolster his health programs amidst a strained local budget. The local government contributed manpower to the mission, which focused on addressing common health issues among the elderly, such as blood pressure, and provided dental services, including extractions, to over 100 children. Additionally, obstetrics-gynecology consultations were available for women.