The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation-Davao (PhilHealth-11) announced Tuesday that it has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Region 11 (BFAR-11), reinforcing their shared commitment to extend health coverage to fisherfolk communities.
PhilHealth-11 Regional Vice President Harvey Carcedo said the MOA, signed on Monday, underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration in ensuring that marginalized sectors—particularly those in fisheries—gain access to the full benefits of the National Health Insurance Program.
“This MOA is a promise made real—that our fisherfolk, who give so much to the nation, will no longer be left behind in the journey toward Universal Health Care,” Carcedo added.
He emphasized that fisherfolk will no longer live in fear of hospital bills and can now enjoy peace of mind through health protection.
“By joining forces, we are anchoring our commitment to uplift communities, to create ripples of hope, and to bring protection to every shore and every harbor in our region,” Carcedo said.
BFAR-11 Regional Director Relly Garcia — represented by Dr. Elaine Vera Belvis, chief of the Fisheries Management, Regulatory and Enforcement Division (FMRED) — noted that the collaboration reflects both agencies’ dedication to safeguarding the welfare of fishing communities.
“We need to ensure that every fisherman and their family has the health and financial protection that comes with their hard work and perseverance,” Garcia said. (PNA)
