The grand launching of the PhilHealth Konsulta: Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama Service Delivery Caravan was held at the Victorias City Coliseum on September 12 in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
According to a press statement from the Victorias City government, the event was spearheaded by Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez, in partnership with PhilHealth Region VI, which aims to further promote the Konsulta Package, a program that offers comprehensive healthcare services to PhilHealth members, particularly focusing on early check-ups and preventive care.
City Health Officer Dr. Richard Garlitos expressed gratitude to PhilHealth for selecting Victorias City as the first site for the Konsulta Package launch.
Garlitos said that Victorias City was chosen as the pioneering city for the activity, as he reiterated the city’s commitment to enhancing health services for its constituents.
Health Undersecretary Dr. Mary Ann Palermo-Maestral lauded the Victorias City government for being proactive when it comes to health initiatives.
She also acknowledged the crucial role of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) in the success of PhilHealth’s programs and assured them of continued support, including efforts to increase their benefits.
Benitez, in his message, emphasized the significant financial benefits the Konsulta Package will bring to the city, stating that PhilHealth has allocated P18 million for consultations.
He also shared exciting news about the City Health Office (CHO), which is close to becoming the first fully licensed Primary Care Facility (PCF) in Region VI.
Benitez highlighted the importance of early check-ups to prevent more serious health concerns and reaffirmed the city’s full support for PhilHealth’s initiatives.
He also announced that a budget hearing is underway to secure Social Security System (SSS) benefits for all BHWs in the city.
The event also featured an online registration for BHWs, allowing them to update and validate their information with PhilHealth.
Also attending the activity were Vice Mayor Abelardo Bantug III, SP Committee Chair on Health, Councilor Danilo De Asis Jr., Councilor Audie Malaga, PhilHealth Division Chief Region VI Bien Paul Obordo, PhilHealth Bacolod Head Edgar Yocariza, Executive Assistant to the Undersecretary of Health in the Visayas, Macy Lopez, and Bacolod City Development Management Officer Adrian Ramos.*