Marcos leads inauguration of veterans clinic in Batangas

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday led the inauguration of the Valor Access to Lifetime Optimized Health Care Program (Valor) Clinic in Lipa, Batangas, as part of the government’s efforts to bring health care services closer to active and retired soldiers.

Marcos, who was accompanied by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., unveiled the marker of the Valor Clinic during a program at Fernando Air Base.

In his remarks during the inauguration, Marcos expressed gratitude to the country’s soldiers for their sacrifices.

“Nothing can ever equal your service,” the president said. “I hope the government can be your support when you need it.”

The Valor Clinic is a project initiated by the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) to extend its services to different areas across the country, including those outside the National Capital Region.

Through this initiative, more veterans and the dependents will be able to avail the medical services that they deserve. This will also decongest the number of patients being seen in their main hospital.

The medical facility will provide outpatient-based services manned by the personnel and staff of the VMMC.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the pilot facility would provide immunization services, health screenings, early diagnosis, and lab tests such as X-rays, CT scans and MRIs through local providers.

It will also offer telemedicine consultations to expedite service.

Valor Clinics will also rise at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig, North Luzon Command in Tarlac, and Southern Luzon Command in Lucena City.

Marcos said this was only the first phase of the Valor Health Network, with expansions planned through 2028.

He also said that active-duty soldiers and civil defense members would also benefit from the program.

Marcos has directed the Department of National Defense and the Department of Budget and Management to ensure full funding for the rollout of the clinics.

Meanwhile, first lady Liza Marcos led the groundbreaking of a 16-story pediatric and adult specialty center at the Philippine General Hospital in Manila on June 25.

“Thrilled that the Philippine General Hospital is getting a shiny new 16-story wing! Now let’s all pray that it’s completed before my husband’s term ends!” the first lady said in an Instagram post.

The new facility will house 450 beds, modern pediatric emergency rooms, intensive care units, operating theaters, and outpatient clinics. It is expected to be completed by 2027 with an estimated cost of P675.5 million.”This is more than just a building. It is a promise that no Filipino should be left behind when it comes to health care,” University of the Philippines president Angelo Jimenez said.