The Iloilo City Government has launched a localized Medical Assistance Program (MAP) called Haplos, providing financial support of up to P50,000 to indigent and financially challenged residents. The program aims to help Ilonggos struggling to cover medical expenses for their sick and hospitalized loved ones.
Haplos, which stands for Health Assistance sa Pumuluyo, Laboratory kag Ospital Serbis, offers aid for hospitalization, diagnostic procedures, laboratory services, medicines, medical supplies, and other essential healthcare services. Beneficiaries are endorsed through the Atipan Center, located on the 7th Floor of Iloilo City Hall.
Beneficiaries Express Gratitude
Violeta Gentil, 59, from Barangay Tabuc Suba, Jaro, expressed optimism upon learning about the program. A mother of eight, she shared that one of her children suffers from schizophrenia and her husband also has health issues. Despite working hard, her income is insufficient for daily needs and medical expenses. She said, "One hundred percent happy because the program is available and benefits the city residents, especially the poor."
Dureza Borrero, 50, from Barangay Hipodromo, City Proper, sought assistance for her mother undergoing free treatment at the Uswag Dialysis Center. As a laundry worker, she said the aid from Atipan Center and free dialysis services have greatly eased their financial burden.
Partnerships with Hospitals
To strengthen Haplos, the city government formalized partnerships with 10 hospitals through a Memorandum of Agreement signing on June 1, 2026. Partner hospitals include Iloilo Mission Hospital, Asia Pacific Medical Center, St. Paul's Hospital Iloilo, Iloilo Doctors' Hospital Inc., Medicus Medical Center, Healthway Qualimed Hospital Iloilo, The Medical City Iloilo, Metro Iloilo Hospital and Medical Center, West Visayas State University Medical Center, and Western Visayas Medical Center.
This partnership aims to streamline medical assistance delivery and ensure timely support for qualified patients.
How to Avail of Haplos
Residents can access Haplos through the Iloilo City Atipan Center. Applicants must be indigent or financially incapacitated, suffering from a life- or limb-threatening illness diagnosed by a licensed physician, and require prolonged hospitalization or continuing medical care. The cost of treatment must severely strain the patient's resources, subject to assessment by a social worker.
Qualified beneficiaries may receive support for prescribed medicines, drugs, medical devices, and other interventions beyond PhilHealth coverage, subject to guidelines and fund availability. Assistance is available once per quarter, up to P50,000 per beneficiary. Unused balances cannot be carried over.
Documentary Requirements
Applicants must submit a valid ID with three signatures, a Certificate of Indigency, a Social Case Study Report from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), a final hospital bill, and a medical abstract. An authorized representative may process the application with an authorization letter and valid ID if the beneficiary is unavailable. Beneficiaries are encouraged to secure the Social Case Study Report early, even before the final hospital bill, provided a medical abstract is submitted. Additional requirements may apply depending on the nature of assistance.
Mayor's Statement
Mayor Raisa Treñas emphasized the program's role in making healthcare accessible. "As mayor, it is painful to see families suffering due to lack of funds for medical treatment. Many have approached my office for medical assistance, inspiring us to expand the Haplos Program. Through this, more Ilonggos will receive hope, support, and the opportunity to get proper healthcare," she said.
The Haplos Medical Assistance Program reflects the city government's commitment to building a responsive, compassionate, and inclusive healthcare system where assistance is within reach for every Ilonggo in times of medical need.
