On March 25, 2026, a significant healthcare initiative was unveiled in Pampanga, marking a major step forward in preventive care for the region. Governor Lilia "Nanay" Pineda, Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa, and PhilHealth President Edwin M. Mercado jointly launched the PhilHealth YAKAP and GAMOT programs. These programs are designed to deliver primary care services and essential medicines to the residents of Pampanga, commonly referred to as "Kapampangans."
Event Details and Partnerships
The launch event was strategically timed to coincide with the Luzon Governors' Forum, which carried the theme "Wellness and Healthy Aging: Longevity Summit." This forum took place at the Royce Hotel in Clark, Pampanga, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss health and longevity. The partnership between the provincial government, the Department of Health (DOH), and PhilHealth was highlighted by the attendance of DOH Regional Director Dr. Corazon I. Flores, PhilHealth Region III Acting Vice President Ma. Emily P. Roque, and various Local Government Units officials.
Accredited Facilities Across Pampanga
To ensure widespread access, all nine district hospitals and the Provincial Hospital in Pampanga have been accredited as YAKAP clinics, complete with accredited GAMOT pharmacies. The list of these facilities includes:
- Diosdado P. Macapagal Memorial Hospital in Guagua
- Escolastica Romero District Hospital in Lubao
- Romana Pangan District Hospital in Floridablanca
- Domingo B. Flores District Hospital in Macabebe
- Dr. Andres J. Luciano District Hospital in Magalang
- Dr. Emigdio C. Cruz Sr. Memorial Hospital in Arayat
- Jose Songco Lapid District Hospital in Porac
- Mabalacat District Hospital in Mabalacat City
- Ricardo P. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital in the City of San Fernando
- San Luis District Hospital in San Luis
Access and Benefits for Members
PhilHealth members and their dependents have multiple options to choose their preferred YAKAP clinic. They can do so through the PhilHealth office, via mobile phone using the eGovPH app, or through the Member Portal at www.philhealth.gov.ph. The benefits provided under the YAKAP and GAMOT programs are comprehensive and include:
- Free health screening
- Unlimited check-ups and consultations with YAKAP doctors, including prescriptions as needed
- Laboratory tests
- Cancer screening tests
- Access to 21 essential medicines at YAKAP clinics
- Access to 54 essential medicines at GAMOT pharmacies, with an annual limit of Php20,000 per member
Expansion and Readiness Efforts
As part of a broader effort to expand primary care to all communities in Pampanga, PhilHealth officials are ensuring that the infrastructure is ready for full implementation. Dr. Rowena S. Zabat-San Mateo, PhilHealth Branch Manager, along with Ma. Elizabeth Banting-Capuli, Head of PhilHealth San Fernando, and Robert C. Padron, Head of PhilHealth Angeles, are overseeing system and readiness procedures. This includes 138 accredited YAKAP clinics, 50 accredited GAMOT pharmacies, and accredited Cancer Screening Test Facilities across the entire province. The goal is to provide more benefits and services to every Kapampangan, enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality.
Impact on Health and Resilience
This development represents a foundational shift towards preventive care, which is crucial for promoting longevity, health, and a better quality of life. Primary care not only protects communities during normal times but also proves vital during emergencies, economic challenges, and financial risks. The Provincial Government of Pampanga has committed to championing Universal Health Care (UHC) and will continue to support the PhilHealth YAKAP and GAMOT programs. This support aims to build healthier, more resilient, and stronger Kapampangans in Central Luzon, ensuring that healthcare remains a top priority for the region's future.
