Davao Oriental, May 6, 2025 — The unwavering efforts of the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental to improve healthcare services bore fruit today as seven brand-new Patient Transport Vehicles (PTVs) were formally turned over to seven Local Government Units (LGUs) in the province.
The ceremonial turnover, held at the Capitol Covered Court, was led by Governor Niño Uy along with mayors and representatives of the recipient LGUs. Also present was Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) Board of Director Imelda Papin, who officially turned over the vehicles on behalf of the agency.
The first batch of LGUs that received the ambulances includes Mati City and the municipalities of Baganga, Banaybanay, Cateel, Caraga, Lupon, and Tarragona. Other LGUs are set to receive their PTVs once their documentation is completed, with a total of 11 localities expected to benefit under the program.
The project is the result of Governor Uy’s direct appeal to the National Government, with support from PCSO Davao Oriental led by Branch Head John Sison. The goal: to address the growing need for efficient and accessible medical transport in the province.
“We are one step closer to achieving truly inclusive and free healthcare for all,” said Governor Uy. “Even with limited resources, we will not stop seeking ways to expand our services, especially in the health sector.”
Governor Uy extended his heartfelt gratitude to the PCSO for their continued support. “We sincerely thank the National Government through the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office for making this possible. You know well that this will benefit many Oriental Dabawenyos, and on their behalf, daghang salamat,” he said. He also acknowledged PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles, whom he personally approached to request the PTVs.
PCSO Board Director Imelda Papin expressed appreciation for the warm reception their program received in Davao Oriental. She emphasized that the donated ambulances are part of the PCSO’s Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program, which aims to strengthen emergency response services, particularly in remote areas.
Each of the new ambulances comes fully equipped with essential medical tools, including a stretcher, oxygen tank, blood pressure monitor, ambu bag, medicine cabinet, and wheelchair. These features are designed to ensure faster and smoother patient transport, especially during emergencies.
This development marks a major milestone for Davao Oriental—symbolizing a more prepared, efficient, and compassionate public healthcare service system.
