Forty-four cancer patients received a combined P2.1 million in medical assistance, along with 25 kilograms of rice each, to help ease the financial strain of treatment and daily household needs.

Among the beneficiaries was 67-year-old Alfredo Salvado, a former overseas Filipino worker who spent years working as a technician in Saudi Arabia.

Salvado was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer after undergoing a medical examination in May. The diagnosis came as a shock to his family, as he had reportedly experienced no noticeable symptoms before the examination.

He received P290,000 in assistance to help cover the cost of his medicines and oral chemotherapy.

“Malaking bagay po sa amin ang tulong na ito, lalo na sa mga katulad kong may sakit at kapos sa buhay,” Salvado said, describing the assistance as a major relief at a time when his family was struggling to meet medical expenses.

He also expressed gratitude to those who extended support, saying the assistance gave him and his family not only financial relief but also hope and strength to continue facing his illness.

The aid was extended with the support of Pampanga Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, Board Member Kaye Naguit, and Claire Lim through the Governor’s Medical Assistance program.

Records showed that the 44 beneficiaries received a total of P2.1 million in financial assistance, on top of the rice support provided to each patient.

The continuing assistance seeks to help cancer patients cope with the often costly and prolonged treatment, while providing their families some much-needed relief as they navigate the challenges of illness.

For beneficiaries like Salvado, the assistance means one less burden to carry in a difficult fight.