The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday handed over a sea ambulance for coastal residents of Currimao town and nearby towns in the second district of Ilocos Norte.

The sea ambulance costs around PHP4,998,750 and was purchased through the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP).

DOH Regional Director Paula Paz Sydiongco said the sea ambulance is funded under the universal health care program that aims to provide more access for all Filipinos, especially the vulnerable populations, by ensuring the availability of functional health facilities and medical transport vehicles.

“This event is more than just a ceremonial handover. It represents a profound commitment to ensuring that every citizen has access to timely and effective medical health care services,” Sydiongco said during the ceremony held at the Port of Currimao.

Three other units were earlier delivered to the towns of Pagudpud and Pasuquin and this city.

“It’s not often that I see sea ambulance in the Philippines with complete accessories,” Currimao Mayor Edward Quilala said, as he expressed gratitude to the DOH and through the support of Senator Sonny Angara and Ilocos Norte Reps. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos (1st District) and Angelo Marcos Barba (2nd District).

Barba said it is logical that Currimao gets the sea ambulance because the municipality has an international seaport and is strategically located near the city of Batac and the towns of Badoc, Pinili and Paoay.

“The sea ambulance is not only for health but it can also be used for disaster response,” he said. (PNA)