OLONGAPO CITY — Access to primary healthcare and essential medicines has been strengthened in Olongapo City with the launch of the PhilHealth YAKAP and GAMOT programs on April 13, 2026 at SMX Convention Center, SM Central Olongapo.
The rollout was led by Mayor Rolen C. Paulino Jr. together with PhilHealth Acting Vice President Ma. Emily P. Roque, marking a significant step toward improving community-based healthcare services.
Eight health centers across the city have been accredited as PhilHealth YAKAP clinics, enabling residents to access comprehensive primary care services, including consultations, health screening, and basic laboratory services. Partner pharmacies under the GAMOT program have also been tapped to provide prescribed medicines to qualified members and their dependents.
To demonstrate the system, 50 beneficiaries were assisted through the full cycle of care—from initial check-up and consultation to prescription issuance and medicine dispensing—highlighting the streamlined delivery of services through coordinated efforts among healthcare providers.
The program ensures the availability of 21 essential medicines in YAKAP-accredited clinics and 54 medicines through GAMOT partner pharmacies. Members may avail of up to Php20,000 worth of medicines annually, subject to proper medical prescription.
Olongapo City Health Officer Roderick J. Bustamante emphasized that the initiative strengthens grassroots healthcare delivery through close collaboration between the local government, PhilHealth, and healthcare partners.
Mayor Paulino underscored the importance of sustaining accessible healthcare services, noting that the program will help ensure continuous provision of medical consultations, laboratory services, and essential medicines for Olongapeños.
For her part, Roque reaffirmed PhilHealth’s commitment to working with local government units and healthcare providers to deliver inclusive and equitable healthcare services nationwide.
Beneficiaries have already begun to feel the impact of the program. Bernadine de Guzman of Barangay Pag-Asa shared that access to her prescribed medicines has become easier and more consistent, easing her concerns about maintaining her treatment.
With the implementation of YAKAP and GAMOT, Olongapo City takes a step forward in strengthening its primary healthcare system—bringing services closer to communities and ensuring that quality healthcare remains within reach of every Filipino. (Christine Ann l. Roque, Public Affairs Unit)