The government has officially launched the YAKAP Beterano ng Bagong Pilipinas Program in Leyte to strengthen healthcare assistance and support services for Filipino veterans.
The program was introduced by the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) as part of its efforts to provide better access to medical services and government health benefits for former war and military personnel.
What is the YAKAP Beterano Program?
The YAKAP Beterano Program is designed to provide additional healthcare services and assistance to veterans, including:
- Medical consultations
- Health screenings
- Guidance on accessing government health benefits
- Support in availing healthcare services
The program aims to help veterans maintain good health and prevent serious illnesses that may require hospitalization.
PVAO Expands Healthcare Support for Veterans
PVAO Administrator Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu led the launch of the program in Leyte. According to him, the initiative complements the existing Veterans Hospitalization and Medical Care Program.
Mapagu explained that the goal of the program is to ensure that veterans remain healthy and active in their communities.
“A healthy veteran is a productive veteran,” he said.
Integrated with Lakbay Serbisyo sa Bagong Pilipinas
The YAKAP Beterano Program will also be integrated into the Lakbay Serbisyo sa Bagong Pilipinas initiative, which aims to bring government services closer to communities across the country.
Through this approach, PVAO hopes to reach more veterans and their families and ensure they have access to quality and affordable healthcare services.
Benefits for Veterans and Their Families
The program will provide assistance not only to veterans but also to their families. Beneficiaries may include:
- Filipino veterans
- Surviving spouses
- Qualified dependents
Through the initiative, beneficiaries may receive support in:
- PhilHealth enrollment and benefits
- Claims assistance
- Guidance on available healthcare programs
Veterans Welcome the Program
Veterans in Leyte welcomed the new initiative, noting that it will help them access medical consultations and laboratory examinations more easily.
Retired Army Lieutenant Ramon Baron, president of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines Alangalang Veterans Post, said the program will provide valuable support to veterans who regularly need healthcare services and maintenance medications.
Who Can Avail of the Program?
All PVAO pensioners, retirees, veterans, and their qualified dependents are encouraged to take advantage of the YAKAP Beterano ng Bagong Pilipinas Program.
Through this initiative, the government aims to continue improving the health, welfare, and well-being of Filipino veterans who served the country.
Also Read: