CAPIZ – The provincial government of Capiz and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on March 10 aimed at providing medical assistance to more than 50,000 registered coconut farmers in the province.
Gov. Fredenil H. Castro led the signing ceremony, marking a step toward improving the health and welfare of coconut farmers across Capiz.
The program will be implemented under Republic Act No. 11524, which seeks to strengthen support services for coconut farmers and develop the country’s coconut industry.
Under the agreement, registered coconut farmers will receive free medical services, including electrocardiogram (ECG) tests, urinalysis, X-rays, medical and dental checkups, and other necessary medical interventions.
“With this agreement, we are reinforcing our commitment to the welfare of our coconut farmers,” Castro said during the signing ceremony.
“This initiative not only seeks to improve their health but also aims to uplift their livelihoods,” he added.
The program will be implemented through the Hospitalization and Medical Care Assistance Program and Mobile Health Services, which aim to bring medical services to farmers in remote communities across the province.
Officials said the initiative is designed to help farmers access essential healthcare services without having to shoulder costly medical expenses.
Alongside the MOA, a Data Sharing Agreement was also signed to facilitate the proper and lawful collection of information on coconut farmers, ensuring that qualified beneficiaries can easily access the program’s services.
Also present during the ceremony was Neil Melencio, PCA Regional Manager III, along with other PCA officials and representatives.
The partnership is expected to improve healthcare access for coconut farmers in Capiz while supporting the sustainability and development of the province’s coconut industry./PN
