By: Glenn D. Tipay, EPS II/SMN
OLONGAPO CITY, May 29, 2024 —The Schools Division Office of Olongapo City yesterday launched the “Arugang Gapo sa mga Taga-Kagawaran ng Edukasyon” the very first Health Card Program for the Department of Education only here in Olongapo City. The event, held from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon at Makikit Park, was attended by 2,264 teaching and non-teaching beneficiaries.
This pioneering program, developed in partnership with James L. Gordon Memorial Hospital and the City Health Office, initiated by City Mayor Hon. Role C. Paulino Jr and Dr. Imelda P. Macaspac, OIC-Schools Division Superintendent aims to provide comprehensive healthcare support to the education sector. The launch event introduced the Health Card System, elaborated on its benefits and usage, and has fostered community partnerships. The activity also highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare and addressed any questions or concerns from the attendees.
The event commenced with an inspiring welcome message from the Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, William Roderick R. Fallorin, who emphasized the significance of health in achieving educational goals. He also expressed gratitude to the SDO team for their dedicated initiative to provide for the welfare of the teachers and employees of DepEd Olongapo.
Dr. Jeremy Calica, SDO Medical Officer, took the stage to introduce the “Arugang Gapo sa mga Taga-Kagawaran ng Edukasyon” Health Card Program. He provided an overview of the initiative, detailing how it would benefit the teaching and non-teaching staff by offering easier access to medical services and promoting overall well-being.
City Mayor Hon. Rolen C. Paulino Jr. delivered a special message, expressing his administration’s commitment to supporting the health and welfare of educators. He highlighted the program as evidence of the city’s dedication to improving public service delivery through innovative health solutions to the DepEd Olongapo. Mayor Paulino emphasized that this Health Card program can give the teaching and non-teaching personnel peace of mind of being secured because they can have their health checked at James L Gordon Memorial Hospital anytime they need.
Dr. Jesse Jewel Manuel, Hospital Director of James L. Gordon Memorial Hospital, explained the privileges and limitations associated with the Health Card. He emphasized the services available and the conditions under which cardholders can utilize these benefits.
Dr. Roderick Bustamante, City Health Director, outlined the specific health services accessible through the City Health Office under this program. He stressed the importance of preventive care and regular health check-ups in maintaining a healthy workforce.
Dr. Imelda P. Macaspac, OIC-Schools Division Superintendent, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all partners and Mayor Paulino Jr. She acknowledged the collective effort required to bring such a vital program to fulfillment and its positive impact to the DepEd of Olongapo.
Dr. Eleonor C. Cayabyab, CID Chief, mentioned that DepEd personnel are fortunate of being the direct beneficiaries of this historical and flagship project between the LGU and the DEpED Olongapo City. She further remarked that all DepEd personnel must keep themselves mentally and physically healthy.
Ricardo E. Ednave, SGOD-Chief, concluded the event with closing remarks, encouraging all attendees to actively participate in the program and take full advantage of the health benefits provided.
