MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) conducted a nationwide deployment of free medical services saturday, marking President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s birthday with expanded healthcare access for Filipinos.
All 83 DOH hospitals, typically closed on Saturdays, opened their outpatient departments to provide free consultations, laboratory tests, and a wide array of medical services. the initiative aimed to deliver a “gift to the Filipino people,” according to the DOH, addressing immediate health needs and promoting preventative care. This nationwide effort underscores the Marcos management’s commitment to strengthening public health infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to essential medical services,especially for vulnerable populations who may face financial barriers to healthcare.
DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo confirmed the nationwide scope of the program, stating, “If you are visiting the outpatient services of DOH hospitals, this will be provided to you for free. Particularly today, September 13th. And this is nationwide.”
The medical missions encompassed a comprehensive suite of services, including general and specialist consultations, laboratory and imaging tests such as chest x-rays and ultrasounds, screenings for cancer, tuberculosis, and HIV, family planning services, immunization and deworming programs, dental care, mental health assessments, and wellness services like acupuncture, massage, pedicure, and haircuts. Additionally, the DOH distributed assistive devices including wheelchairs, canes, crutches, and walkers.
