To improve healthcare accessibility for both domestic and international tourists, the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) have agreed to establish "first aid facilities" in key tourist areas across the Philippines.
Based on the DOH's statement, during a meeting on Monday, April 29, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stressed that the initiative aims to establish first aid facilities connected to broader healthcare networks in tourist hotspots such as San Juan (La Union), Coron, El Nido, Puerto Galera, Panglao, and Siargao.
He also emphasized the importance of addressing health, safety, and hygiene services in communities with tourist attractions to foster healthier tourist sites.
"When we fix health care for tourists - both our kababayans and our foreign visitors - we also work on the health care of the communities they visit," said Herbosa.
Meanwhile, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco echoed Herbosa's sentiments, expressing the department's commitment to promoting the Philippines as a premier tourist destination.
"Let us create healthier tourist sites by caring both for our people there and the visitors they welcome," added Herbosa.
The DOH noted that this collaborative effort highlights the government's dedication to enhancing the overall tourism experience while prioritizing the health and safety of both visitors and local communities.