By Michelle Ducut
More than 2,000 residents benefitted from a government-led caravan held at the Agdao Mega Complex on Friday, November 29, spearheaded by the Presidential Commission on Urban Poor (PCUP).
The caravan, aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to bring government services closer to the people, featured the participation of 30 national agencies. PCUP Chair Maynardo Sabili and Commissioner Michelle Gonzales highlighted the initiative as part of efforts to ensure accessible public services.
Among the most sought-after agencies was the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), with residents availing services related to the Universal Health Care program. “The President wants every Filipino to have their own PhilHealth card,” Gonzales explained, adding that the Konsulta Program, which includes laboratory tests and preventive care, was a key focus of the caravan.
Other participating agencies provided a wide array of services. The Department of Labor and Employment organized a job fair, the Philippine Statistics Authority facilitated national ID registrations, and the Department of Trade and Industry conducted training programs. Free medical and dental services were offered by the Department of Health, while the Public Attorney’s Office provided legal assistance.
Local offices also contributed to the event. The City Veterinary Office immunized pets, the City Agriculture Office distributed seedlings, and the Land Transportation Office and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority provided their respective services.
San Carlos City Mayor Julier Resuello expressed pride in hosting the pilot caravan in the Ilocos Region and noted that it marked the final stop for the program this year. Pangasinan 3rd District Representative Ma. Rachel Arenas, who requested the event, emphasized its importance in serving the city’s large population.