𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇 𝐑𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐒 𝐎𝐔𝐓 ‘𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐓’ 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌 𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐄𝐁𝐔 𝐓𝐎 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐌𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐀𝐂𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐒
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) launched its flagship outpatient medication program in Cebu today, Feb. 17, a move that reinforces Capitol’s commitment to making healthcare more accessible and affordable in the province.
Dubbed “GAMOT” (Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment) under PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP), the initiative aims to cushion the financial impact of buying medicine, which health officials identify as a primary driver of out-of-pocket expenses for Filipino families.
Gov. Pamela Baricuatro welcomed the national government’s decision to launch the program in the province, pointing out that it aligns with her administration’s priority of improving healthcare services.
“It has been roughly seven months since I assumed office, and by now, I hope our people can see how serious this administration is about improving healthcare services across the province,” Gov. Baricuatro said in her speech.
The governor underscored that health is not merely a service but a fundamental right, and that programs like GAMOT help bring the government closer to the people by removing barriers to treatment.
“We believe that no Cebuano should ever have to choose between their health and their daily needs. Through stronger partnerships with institutions like DOH and PhilHealth, we continue to build a healthcare system that is responsive, inclusive, and compassionate,” she said.
Gov. Baricuatro said that efforts are underway to integrate all provincial and district health facilities into the system.
“This initiative reflects what effective governance should look like — proactive, people-centered, and anchored on dignity,” she said.
The governor also commended the collaboration between national agencies and local government, describing it as a model of effective governance.
“When national agencies and local governments work together, we create solutions that truly change lives,” Gov. Baricuatro said. “Let this launch remind us that caring for the health of our people is a shared responsibility.”
The gorvernor congratulated PhilHealth Regional Office 7 for the milestone, expressing hope that the program would ensure every Cebuano feels cared for, supported, and never left behind.
Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, who graced the launching, said the program is designed to strengthen primary care in Central Visayas by ensuring that essential drugs are within reach of PhilHealth members.
Also in attendance are Philhealth President Edwin Mercado, Capitol Piso Health Consultant Dr. Nikki Catalan, Provincial Board Member Dr. Stanley Caminero, Cebu’s health officials, and other local officials.
The program covers 75 essential medicines, a significant expansion from previous outpatient drug benefits. These include medications for common and chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, dyslipidemia, infections, and select cardiovascular and neurological ailments.
Each qualified member and their dependent can avail themselves of an annual benefit limit of up to P20,000. /𝑪𝑨𝑷𝑰𝑻𝑶𝑳 𝑷𝑰𝑶, 𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒕𝒐𝒔 𝒃𝒚 𝑨𝑺𝑪
Check this also: Gov. Baricuatro Convenes Cebu PDC to Review 2027 Budget Proposals
