In a significant advancement for local healthcare, Mayor Arvin Rolly D. Antipolo of San Antonio, Zambales, alongside PhilHealth Acting Vice President Ma. Emily P. Roque, officially launched the PhilHealth YAKAP and GAMOT programs on March 23, 2026. The inauguration took place at the Elyaga Medical Clinic and Laboratory Clinic and Raine Pharmacy in San Antonio, marking a pivotal moment for community health services in the region.
Comprehensive Healthcare Initiatives
The YAKAP program, which stands for Yaman ng Kalusugan Program, is designed to offer continuous primary care to every member of the community. In active collaboration with PhilHealth Olongapo Head Lheny D. Fajardo, the accredited Elyaga Clinic, led by Dr. Lee-Ann Q. Estrella and SK Federation President Cziello Raine P. Albino, provides a range of essential services. These include free health screenings, check-ups, laboratory tests, and access to 21 essential medicines for enrolled members.
Expanded Medication Access
Complementing YAKAP, the GAMOT program, or Guaranteed Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment, enhances medication accessibility. Members with a YAKAP doctor's prescription can avail of essential medicines worth up to Php20,000 annually at Raine Pharmacy and other accredited GAMOT pharmacies across the province. This initiative covers 54 essential medicines, ensuring that outpatient treatment is both affordable and readily available.
First Implementation in San Antonio
This launch represents the first implementation of both YAKAP and GAMOT programs in the municipality of San Antonio, Zambales, directly benefiting every Zambaleño. With full support from key implementers of Universal Health Care (UHC), the initiative aims to transform local healthcare systems to be more proactive and primary care-driven.
Focus on Prevention and Wellness
The programs emphasize prevention, continuity of care, long-term wellness, and the development of stronger communities. By leading this shift in healthcare, the Municipality of San Antonio, Zambales, sets a precedent for other municipalities and cities to follow, aligning with national UHC goals to improve public health outcomes.
Registration Process
To register with a selected YAKAP Clinic, community members have multiple convenient options:
- Visit the PhilHealth Office in person for direct assistance and enrollment.
- Use the eGovPH application on a mobile phone for digital registration, allowing easy access from anywhere.
- Access the Member Portal at www.philhealth.gov.ph to complete registration online, providing a streamlined process for tech-savvy individuals.
This comprehensive approach ensures that all residents, regardless of their technological proficiency, can easily enroll and benefit from these vital healthcare programs. The collaboration between local government, PhilHealth, and community leaders underscores a shared commitment to enhancing health equity and accessibility in San Antonio and beyond.
