In a move to further support underprivileged Dabawenyos, the City Government of Davao has allocated an increased budget of P600 million for the Lingap para sa Mahirap Program in 2025. This allocation marks a significant rise from the P400 million set aside in 2024, ensuring that more Davao residents in need will receive assistance.
Ytalia Bohol, Officer-In-Charge of the Lingap Program, shared during the I-Speak Media forum that the increased funding aims to meet the growing demand for the program’s services. Last year, the program served 188,472 people, averaging 700 to 800 clients daily across the Lingap Main Office and its satellite offices.
A major component of the program, Bohol noted, is providing aid for medical needs, particularly for patients requiring medications, including those seeking assistance for animal bite treatments and patients who were unable to access anti-rabies shots from the City Health Office. Bohol highlighted that Lingap collaborates with accredited pharmacies to ensure that necessary medications are available.
The Lingap para sa Mahirap Program is one of the flagship initiatives of the city government, designed to support low-income families with medical bills, funeral expenses, and costs related to medications, dialysis, and laboratory procedures. Cancer patients are given priority, with the program offering monthly assistance for chemotherapy treatments and medication costs.
Moreover, the program has expanded its support to both public and private hospitals in the city. With 42 private hospitals and three accredited pharmacies, Lingap has further strengthened its capacity to assist patients across various health needs.
Bohol also emphasized that the program provides assistance to both private and public sector partners, allowing for broader access to necessary care. “We are grateful to our private partners for their cooperation in providing assistance, as this collaboration truly benefits the patients,” she stated.
For those seeking medical, funeral, or medication aid, specific documents are required, such as final medical bills, medical certificates, death certificates, and barangay certifications. The program also requires ID cards and prescriptions depending on the type of aid being requested.
Additionally, Lingap has satellite offices spread across Davao City, including in Calinan, Marilog, Toril, Bunawan, Paquibato, and the Almendras Gymnasium compound, ensuring easy access for residents in various districts.
For inquiries, Dabawenyos can reach out to the Lingap para sa Mahirap official Facebook Page or contact the program through several phone numbers for different locations, providing further accessibility and support for those in need.
This increase in funding and the continued expansion of services reinforces Davao City’s commitment to uplifting the lives of its residents and ensuring that help is within reach for those who need it most.
