BBM visits La Union, extends aid to patients and teachers

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday visited the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC) and San Agustin Elementary School in San Fernando City, La Union, to extend financial and relief assistance.

At ITRMC, the President checked on patients and assessed the implementation of the government’s zero balance billing policy, according to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro. He also toured key facilities such as the Orthopedic Department, Trauma Center, and Oncology Ward, where he witnessed the no out-of-pocket payment process in action.

The tertiary hospital has a 520-bed capacity and 828 employees. Under the zero balance billing policy in Department of Health hospitals, patients admitted to wards or basic accommodations do not pay out-of-pocket for their treatment.

Marcos later proceeded to San Agustin Elementary School, where he led the distribution of food packs to 1,000 teaching and non-teaching staff affected by recent calamities. Around 800 individuals, including students and parents, joined the activity.

The President also instructed concerned agencies to maximize resources in preparation for Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name Bualoi) while continuing relief and rehabilitation for communities hit by Super Typhoon Nando (international name Ragasa).