ILOILO — Government agencies are rolling out a multi-service caravan across key transport terminals in Iloilo, delivering on-site health care, labor assistance, and regulatory services to thousands of transport workers hit by economic pressures.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 6 leads the Inter-Agency Government Service Caravan at Vallacar Transit (Ceres Terminal), Ungka Terminal, and Mohon Terminal, bringing essential services directly to drivers and operators in what officials describe as a critical intervention amid ongoing economic challenges in the transport sector.
The caravan kicked off yesterday, March 26.
“Given the crisis situation we are in, we must listen to our workers — who are the most vulnerable during these tough times. This initiative aims to ensure their protection and provide the support they desperately need,” said Atty. Jorge Ferraris, head of the Technical Support and Services Division of DOLE-6.
The caravan started at the Ceres Terminal, followed by simultaneous operations on March 27 at Ungka and Mohon terminals, targeting transport hubs with high concentrations of drivers and operators.
Multiple national agencies provide a wide range of services in a one-stop setup. The Department of Health (DOH) conducts health assessments focusing on common conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, while the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG offer membership assistance and benefits orientation.
“We have deployed a team consisting of one doctor and one nurse who will conduct health assessments at the locations. They will assess vital signs and gather information regarding the workers’ diets and alcohol consumption, particularly targeting those in high-risk roles like drivers,” said Dr. May Ann Soliva-Sta. Lucia, chief of the Local Health Support Division of DOH-6.
The DOH team will also provide educational materials and promote enrollment in the PhilPEN program, which ensures access to maintenance medicines.
“Those requiring further assistance will be referred to rural health units to ensure they can access the medicines they need,” Dr. Soliva-Sta. Lucia added.
Transport-related agencies, including the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), will assist with licensing, registration, compliance guidance, and vehicle roadworthiness checks, aiming to improve safety standards across the sector.
DOLE will also deploy help desks to provide labor advisory services and promote occupational safety and health compliance through on-site inspections and consultations.
Officials said the caravan is designed not only to deliver services but also to open direct dialogue between government inspectors and transport workers, allowing immediate feedback and clearer understanding of regulatory requirements.
To streamline access to services, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will introduce the eGovPH App, integrating services from 49 government agencies into a single digital platform.
“Our centralized operating system will enhance the way drivers and operators can access vital services, making it easier than ever to tap into available resources,” said Engr. Isidro Laguardia, DICT Region VI eGov focal person.
Around 1,000 beneficiaries are also expected to receive assistance packages from the LTO through transport cooperatives./PN
