By Billy Begas
Highlighting the importance of improving healthcare for Filipinos, officials of Partido Reporma met with Dr. Willie Ong and his wife Dr. Liza in Makati City recently.
Party chairperson and Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez vowed to push for policies that would improve the accessibility and affordability of healthcare services, especially in rural areas.
“I firmly believe that access to quality healthcare is a basic right that all Filipinos should have,” Alvarez said.
Alvarez mentioned that his constituents were able to access medical services for free through his Zero Billing Program, which was implemented to assist those who cannot afford healthcare due to poverty.
“I am proud of what we have achieved in Davao Del Norte, and I am committed to working with other healthcare advocates to improve healthcare services throughout the country,” said Alvarez.
Ong lauded Alvarez’s Zero Billing Program and suggested that it should be used as a blueprint for other provinces to follow.
“The Zero Billing Program in Davao Del Norte is a good example of a healthcare initiative that prioritizes the needs of the people. It is heartening to see that Cong. Alvarez is committed to improving access to healthcare services in his province. I hope other provinces can emulate this program to provide more Filipinos with the medical care they need,” Ong said.
Partido Reporma Treasurer and former LPGMA party-list Rep. Arnel Ty expressed his appreciation for Ong’s valuable input.
“Dr. Ong’s expertise in medicine and health advocacy, as well as his significant social media following, can help us further our mission to improve the healthcare system in the Philippines. We look forward to collaborating with him to make quality healthcare accessible and affordable to all Filipinos. This meeting is a significant step towards achieving our shared goal of ensuring that every Filipino has access to the medical care they need,” Ty added.
Accompanying Alvarez and Ty in the meeting was Partido Reporma Secretary General Clint Aranas.
There were talks that Ong will be joining the Partido Reporma after a photo of him, Alvarez, Ty, and Aranas circulated on social media.
Contributed PhotoWith his extensive knowledge in medicine and healthcare, Ong could provide a fresh perspective to the party’s health and wellness advocacy, and in-depth discussions on healthcare policy.
