The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office is expediting the rollout of 225 units of ambulances to various local government units (LGUs) across the country.

PCSO Chairman Junie E. Cua made the announcement during a convention of the Mindanao-League of Municipalities of the Philippines held in Davao City on June 10, according to a PCSO news release on Tuesday.

“I would like to announce that very soon, our procurement of 225 units of ambulances will be partially completed and those of you who have submitted their request, if you have submitted before and were not included in the priority list, baka sakaling mapagbigyan na (hopefully your request will be accommodated),” Cua told the gathering of Mindanao local executives.

The PCSO prioritizes the provision of medical transport vehicles to the LGUS located in geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas, as well as those in conflict-stricken areas and vulnerable communities.

He also assured that the PCSO continues to focus its efforts towards generating new funds so that it can expand its medical assistance programs.

In 2022, the PCSO has provided more than PHP2 billion worth of direct assistance to around 250,000 individuals with health-related problems seeking financial help through its Medical Assistance Program (MAP).

“These are the things that the agency is trying to do so that we can improve our service to you. We will continue to strengthen this,” he said.

Cua, who served as governor and representative of Quirino province, said the agency is also looking at ways to work more closely with mayors and other government frontliners.

“The mayors are in the frontline of government service, kayo ang mas nakakaalam ng nangyayari sa (you know better what is happening on the) ground. So, it is very important that our agency support the local executives,” he said.

The former local government executive also took the opportunity to share insights on local governance, particularly about his guiding principles in public service, which he summarized with the acronym “GREAT.”

“GREAT stands for good governance, right-sizing, efficiency, accountability, and transparency,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of networking to generate more funds to support sustainable development efforts. (PNA)