Bicol: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth-5) is calling on residents of Bicol to utilize the YAKAP (Yaman ng Kalusugan Program), which is aimed at improving access to community-based healthcare services.

According to Philippines News Agency, Leri Ilagan, who heads the public affairs unit of PhilHealth in Bicol, emphasized that the YAKAP program is crafted to mitigate severe illnesses and avert expensive hospitalizations through timely diagnosis, treatment, and access to necessary medications. "This program is designed for all Bicolanos, both members and their dependents, and emphasizes preventive care to help manage and avoid illnesses before they worsen. Services under this program are provided at no additional cost to members," Ilagan stated.

She further explained that YAKAP is an enhanced consultation package offering a range of additional services. PhilHealth members and their dependents can benefit from free consultations, health screenings, as well as diagnostic and laboratory services such as ECGs, chest X-rays, blood tests, and urinalyses. The program also includes cancer screening tests like mammograms and breast exams, alongside access to 75 essential medications for treating conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and infections.

PhilHealth is working on accrediting various pharmacies in the Bicol region to ensure the availability of these 75 medications under the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) program. To access the program's benefits, PhilHealth members are required to register with YAKAP-accredited facilities.

"Registration for YAKAP can be done through the e-gov platform, the PhilHealth portal, local health insurance offices, and accredited YAKAP clinics. Members must first register as PhilHealth members before selecting a nearby YAKAP clinic," Ilagan added. As of July 2025, there are 142 YAKAP-accredited clinics and facilities across Bicol.