Post-war veterans expressed their profound gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the 84th Anniversary of the Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), citing the administration’s steadfast commitment to their welfare through the launch of the Yakap Beterano Program.
The program, a strategic partnership between the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), provides veterans with essential medical support, including free outpatient services, medicines, and laboratory tests.
For many aging veterans, the expansion of healthcare services represents more than just a policy change—it is a vital lifeline. During the commemoration at Mt. Samat, 80-year-old veteran Rogelio Bermeo highlighted the financial relief provided by the initiative.
“This is a huge help, especially for those of us at an advanced age dealing with illnesses,” Bermeo stated. “Having these services for free is significant when you compare it to the costs at private hospitals. The government’s current policies are working well for us.”
Echoing these sentiments, 78-year-old veteran Jesus Jaime emphasized the importance of consistent health monitoring.
“The Yakap program is a big help because, as veterans, our medical needs only increase as we get older,” Jaime said. “President Marcos has introduced excellent programs that truly look after our well-being.”
The Philippine government’s commitment to veterans extends beyond outpatient services. To address the complexities of geriatric health, the PVAO has announced plans to establish a Veterans Hospice.
This dedicated facility will focus on:
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Geriatric Specialty Care: Tailored medical attention for age-related conditions.
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End-of-Life Care: Ensuring dignity and comfort for veterans with complex health issues.
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Comprehensive Support: A holistic approach to the physical and emotional needs of the nation’s heroes.
The administration’s “Yakap Beterano” initiative serves as a cornerstone of a broader push to ensure that the men and women who served the nation receive the responsive and dignified care they deserve in their twilight years.
