FREE RIDE. Ilocos Norte Board Member Johanson Chua explains the highlights of the free transport program in this undated photo. The ordinance was approved for final reading on Monday (Sept. 1, 2025). (Photo by Leilanie Adriano)
LAOAG CITY – A free transport program will soon be available for indigent patients with severe medical cases or those undergoing dialysis, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy when they go for treatment.
Provincial Board Member Johanson Chua confirmed this Tuesday, following the approval of Provincial Ordinance No. 2025-07-006 a day earlier, which aims to provide healthcare transportation for the less fortunate in support of Republic Act No. 11223, also known as the Universal Health Care Act.
Chua said patients needing regular treatment can be expensive and require frequent transportation to and from hospitals and treatment centers.
As stated in the ordinance, transportation costs are a major obstacle for indigent and vulnerable patients, leading to treatment non-compliance and worsening health outcomes.
"Ilocos Norte has a clear goal to promote and protect the health and welfare of its residents, especially those who are indigent and chronically ill. This policy aims to ensure that these individuals have access to life-saving medical treatment by providing free transportation," Chua said in a media interview.
As of this posting, the Metro Ilocos Norte Council under the provincial government is finalizing the ordinance's rules and regulations, serving as the lead body to establish a scheduled route, including pick-up and drop-off points for eligible beneficiaries.
This will also be coordinated with the Provincial Health Office, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, and the Municipal and City Health Offices to ensure a smooth flow of services.
The local government units of Ilocos Norte and barangay health workers are responsible for identifying eligible beneficiaries to ensure no one is left behind under the free transportation program ordinance. (PNA)
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