PHOTOS BY AJ PALCULLO/ILOILO CITY PIO
ONE of the highlights of the Iloilo City Government’s commitment to public service is its strengthened healthcare program, anchored on the provision of free medicines to residents.
Mayor Raisa S. Treñas formally opened the Uswag Iloilo City Pharmacy at the second floor of the City Hall on August 15, adding to the network of pharmacies located in the city’s 10 district health centers.
“Healthcare is one of our foremost priorities,” Treñas said. “We want every Ilonggo to have access to doctors, medical services, and medicines without worrying about affordability. This is part of our vision to build not only pharmacies, but also mega health centers that can cater to more residents in need of quality healthcare.”
The Uswag Pharmacy, in partnership with Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), offers over 70 kinds of medicines, ranging from antibiotics and antimicrobials to maintenance medicines for hypertension and diabetes, as well as emergency drugs for dengue and leptospirosis.
Residents only need to consult with doctors stationed at the city’s health centers and present their prescription to avail of the free medicines.
Jacqueline Blancaflor of the City Health Office’s Pharmacy and Therapeutics Unit explained that each district health center has its own medical officer and designated physician.
“Our medicines are free to all those who seek consultation in our health centers,” she said.
The medicines cover cough, colds, allergies, flu, asthma, and other common conditions, with pharmacists available to guide patients on proper dosage and use.
Blancaflor also reminded the public about responsible medicine use.
“Medicine is not candy. You should not self-medicate. Since our services and advice are free, we encourage everyone to approach our pharmacists for guidance instead of guessing, because misuse may worsen the condition,” she emphasized.
To ensure proper dispensing, the city government has issued Executive Order No. 45, which provides unified guidelines for medicine distribution in all health centers.
The Uswag Iloilo City Pharmacy’s launch and the continuing operations of the city’s health centers reflect the city government’s dedication to inclusive and compassionate public service.
“From consultation to medication, we want to assure every Ilonggo that their government is here to take care of them,” Treñas added./PN
