PGH Receives Php 22.8 Million from PhilHealth for Heart Attack Patients

by Info @Brand Zone | Apr. 14, 2025

PhilHealth PGH Check Turnover

Over Php 22.8 million was handed over to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) last April 11, 2025. This was payment for the initial batch of claims for PhilHealth’s benefit package for Ischemic Heart Disease - Acute Myocardial Infarction (IHD-AMI), a disease commonly known as heart attack. Just three months after its enhancement, the package has been beneficial for at least 77 claims for heart attack patients seen at the PGH as of March 2025. 

PGH Medical Director Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi was present to receive the check from PhilHealth Acting President and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado during the simple ceremonial turnover at the PGH. “Sa ibinigay pong pagkakataon na ma-improve ang service to heart attack patients, record high ang ating serbisyo — wala na pong charity na heart attack patient ngayon. Iyan ang improvement na gusto nating makita. And I think with this current administration of PhilHealth, we will be seeing more of that,” remarked Dr. Legaspi. He also recognized the unwavering support of the PhilHealth Regional Office – NCR, led by Dr. Bernadette Lico who was similarly present at the event, in ensuring that PGH patients appropriately receive the financial risk protection afforded to them by PhilHealth. 

Present as well were some of the patients and their families who were beneficiaries of the package —one of whom was Mrs. Juvy B. Busayong, wife of patient Jose Busayong from Calamba City, Laguna. “At first, hesitant kami kasi alam naman natin kapag narinig natin angiogram expected na natin na expensive,” she testified, “pero one of the doctors nagsabing may package na ang PhilHealth at wala na kaming babayaran. Siyempre, natuwa kami! Napakalaking pribilehiyo na kami ay makatanggap ng ganoong package. Gusto naming magpasalamat sa PhilHealth sa package na ibinigay dito sa amin. Sana po ay marami pa kayong matulungan at marami pang buhay ang ma-save.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Mercado reiterates PhilHealth’s commitment in bringing life-saving health services closer to every Filipino by ensuring prompt claims reimbursements to more hospitals. 

“Ang P22.8 milyong bayad na ito sa PGH ay simula pa lamang. Kami ay iikot pa sa iba’t ibang mga rehiyon para ating personal na tiyakin ang mabilis na pagpoproseso at pagbabayad ng claims para sa mga serbisyong ipinagkaloob ng ating mga ospital sa mga miyembrong may sakit sa puso," Dr. Mercado affirmed.  

The IHD-AMI benefit package offers coverage up to Php 523,853 which can be availed at all accredited Levels 1 to 3 public and private health facilities with the capacity to deliver the necessary services.

For more information on the enhanced Ischemic Heart Disease - Acute Myocardial Infarction package, members may call PhilHealth’s 24/7 touch points at (02) 866-225-88 or at mobile numbers (Smart) 0998-857-2957, 0968-865-4670, (Globe) 0917-1275987 or 0917-1109812. ###

In photo are (L-R) PhilHealth VP for NCR Dr. Bernadette Lico, Dr. Mercado, AMI beneficiaries  Jose Brozo, Juvy Busayong (wife of patient Jose Busayong), Dennis Garcia, PGH Medical Director Dr. Legaspi and Deputy Director Dr. Margarita Lat-Luna. 

#Rise30 

#SamasamangPagangatParaSaBagongPilipinas

In Case You Missed It: PhilHealth Animal Bite Package covers PHP 5,850 for services against highly fatal rabies

by Info @Brand Zone | Mar. 19, 2025

PhilHealth PR No. 2025-16 March 18, 2025

The Department of Health announced that for the year 2024, all 426 recorded rabies cases resulted in deaths. Forty-five percent (193) of these were bites from domestic pets, and of  that percentage, more than half were of unknown vaccination status.  

“Hinihikayat natin ang ating mga miyembro na huwag mag-atubiling magpatingin kung sila ay  kinagat o di kaya’y kinalmot ng hayop, alaga man o hindi. Ang rabies ay isang lubhang  nakamamatay na sakit ngunit maaari itong maiwasan kung agarang mabibigyan ng bakuna,”  said Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, PhilHealth President and CEO.  

Rabies remains to be a significant global health threat, causing 60,000 to 70,000 reported deaths annually. The Philippines ranks sixth among countries with the highest rabies incidence. In fact, from January 1 to March 1 of this year, 55 rabies cases have been tallied.  

In recognition of the burden of rabies in the country this National Rabies Awareness Month, PhilHealth reiterates that there is a benefit package that members could avail to cover for services against rabies. The Animal Bite Treatment (ABT) package, which has been  increased to P5,850 from the previous P3,000, covers essential post-exposure prophylaxis including rabies vaccine and rabies immune globulin for immediate protection, local wound  care, tetanus toxoid and anti-tetanus serum, antibiotics, and supplies which include syringes,  alcohol and antiseptics.  

“Kami sa PhilHealth ay nakikiisa sa National Rabies Prevention and Control Committee sa  kanilang kampanyang rabies-free na pusa’t aso, kaligtasan ng pamilyang Pilipino. Ang ABT  Package ay maaaring makuha sa higit 700 accredited ABT Package Providers sa bansa, at  patuloy pa natin itong dinadagdagan. Gayunpaman, pinaaalalahanan natin ang publiko na  ang unang hakbang sa pag-iwas sa rabies ay ang pagpapabakuna ng ating mga alagang  hayop. Let us all be responsible pet owners,” added Dr. Mercado. 

For more details on anti-rabies benefits and other packages, members may call PhilHealth’s  24/7 touch points at (02) 866-225-88 or at mobile numbers (Smart) 0998-857-2957, 0968- 865-4670, (Globe) 0917-1275987 or 0917-1109812.  

#Rise30 

#SamasamangPagangatParaSaBagongPilipinas 

PCSO Launches Responsible Gaming Awareness Day

by Info @Brand Zone | Mar. 18, 2025

Photo shows Responsible Gaming (RG) banner prominently displayed in front of the PCSO Main Office Conservatory Building, Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City.

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) officially launched Responsible Gaming Awareness Day on March 10, 2025, themed "Play Smart, Play Safe." 

This initiative highlighted the agency's commitment to fostering a culture of mindful play and player protection.

PCSO is dedicated to ensuring that gaming remains an enjoyable and safe activity while generating funds for charitable causes. 

General Manager Mel Robles emphasized that gaming is not just about numbers and luck; it’s fundamentally about people. 

"We continuously refine our strategies to prevent potential problems before they arise," he stated.

"Responsible gaming is not merely a policy; it is a core principle embedded in PCSO’s operations," Robles added.

 "From employee training to game design, marketing, and stakeholder engagement, every initiative reflects this commitment."

 Last year, PCSO achieved Responsible Gaming Level 2 certification from the World Lottery Association, underscoring its dedication to promoting a secure and responsible gaming environment. 

To support this ongoing advocacy, PCSO has implemented several measures to promote responsible gaming: 

- Employee Training: Staff are equipped with skills to identify and address problematic gaming behaviors, while authorized agents are trained to encourage safe play.

- Game Design: PCSO’s games incorporate responsible gaming principles, including clear rules, age verification, and features that promote mindful play while discouraging excessive spending.

- Ethical Marketing: All promotional efforts are conducted with integrity, ensuring messages are appropriate and do not target vulnerable individuals, especially minors.

- Accessible Resources: Players are provided with information and resources about responsible gaming and where to seek assistance.

Activities for Responsible Gaming Awareness Day

In celebration of Responsible Gaming Awareness Day, PCSO organized various initiatives to engage employees, stakeholders, and the public:

1. Public Displays – Banners promoting responsible gaming were showcased at the PCSO main office and across official social media platforms.

2. Social Media Engagement – The PCSO used and the public joined the conversation using the hashtags #PlaySafePlaySmart, #PlayResponsible, and #ResponsibleGaming to raise awareness online. 

3. Employee Training – Specialized training sessions were conducted for PCSO officials and staff to reinforce their role in advocating responsible gaming practices.

4. Brochure Distribution – Informative brochures on responsible gaming were distributed at PCSO booths, accompanied by small tokens to encourage public engagement.

PCSO also encouraged its stakeholders—Lotto outlets, STL stations, and authorized agents—to actively support the campaign.

“The journey toward responsible gaming is continuous, requiring collaboration and accountability. PCSO remains dedicated to enhancing its initiatives, adapting to evolving challenges, and ensuring that gaming remains a source of entertainment while prioritizing player well-being,” GM Robles stated.

“Gaming should be exciting, enjoyable, and, above all, safe.”

Through education, prevention, and advocacy, PCSO reaffirms its commitment: Play Smart, Play Responsibly!

For more information about PCSO’s Responsible Gaming initiatives, visit www.pcso.gov.ph or follow us on our official social media platforms.

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PCSO Provides Mobility Aids to Talisay, Camarines Norte

By: Justin B. Santos/Photos by Arnold T. Ramos

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) continues its commitment to supporting Filipinos in need by providing essential mobility aids to persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens.

On March 11, 2025, PCSO formally turned over 30 wheelchairs and 30 canes to the Municipality of Talisay, Camarines Norte, in a ceremony held at the PCSO Conservatory Building. Representing PCSO was Assistant General Manager (AGM) Arnel N. Casas of the Charity Sector, while Vice Mayor Maria Cristina Arevalo accepted the donation on behalf of the municipality.

Vice Mayor Arevalo expressed her gratitude to PCSO, emphasizing the impact of the donation on the community:

“We sincerely thank PCSO for their generosity and continuous support. These mobility aids will make a significant difference in the lives of our PWDs and senior citizens, giving them greater independence and improving their daily lives.”

PCSO remains steadfast in its mission to provide medical and financial assistance to Filipinos in need, reinforcing its advocacy for inclusive and accessible healthcare support across the country.

PCSO, Hindi umuurong sa Pagtulong!