Twelve local government units (LGUs) have received brand new patient transport vehicles (PTVs) from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

PAGCOR, in a news release on Wednesday, said the beneficiaries are the municipalities of Calumpit (Bulacan), Baras (Rizal); New Bataan (Davao de Oro); Bugallon (Pangasinan); Toboso (Negros Occidental); Sultan Kudarat (Maguindanao del Norte); Burgos, Laoag, Bacarra, Sarrat, and Pasuquin (Ilocos Norte); and the City of Navotas.

The vehicles are fully equipped with a GPS navigation system, ambulance stretcher, medical oxygen, wheelchair, and first aid kit, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of patients to the nearest hospitals or healthcare facilities.

PAGCOR Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Tengco, who led the turnover ceremony at the agency’s Office in Pasay City on Tuesday, said the vehicles “are not merely means of transport.”

“They are lifelines that can make the difference between life and death for those in need of urgent medical attention,” he said.

New Bataan Mayor lawyer Mar Bianca Cualing-Brua expressed his gratitude for the vehicle, citing its timely distribution vis-à-vis the series of strong earthquakes that affected Visayas and Mindanao.

“When calamities strike, local governments rely on their own capacities and resources for emergency medical services. Donations like this are crucial,” she said. “We are truly grateful to PAGCOR for choosing our town as a recipient of their PTV donation.”

Toboso Mayor Richard Jaojoco also thanked PAGCOR officials for the donation, noting that it will help people from far-flung municipalities with limited access to hospitals.

“This will be a huge help, especially for dialysis patients and anyone needing emergency care. We are far from major cities, so having this PTV is truly lifesaving,” he said.

PAGCOR has distributed a total of 142 PTVs to LGUs since February this year. (PNA)