DepEd rolls out school-based health caravans

The Department of Education (DepEd) has begun expanding school-based health services through its “YAKAP at Kalinga” caravan, bringing free medical consultations and basic healthcare directly to students, teachers, and school communities.

The initiative, implemented in partnership with Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), aims to link schools with local healthcare systems and improve access to preventive care and diagnostic services.

During a recent rollout at Marcelo B. Fernan–Polambato Elementary School in Bogo City, around 200 beneficiaries received free medical consultations, laboratory tests, medicines, and reading glasses.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the program is part of efforts to prioritize learner health and well-being within schools.

“This project reflects efforts to ensure that no Filipino learner is left behind, even in the face of health and environmental challenges,” Angara said.

DepEd said the caravan aims to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses for students and teachers by providing services within school campuses.

The program is set to expand to Bataan, with a scheduled caravan at Mariveles National High School–Cabcaben Annex Alasasin.

Similar activities have also been conducted in schools in San Jose del Monte and Quezon City as part of the nationwide rollout.

DepEd said it plans to institutionalize school-based health services through continued expansion of the program across the country. —VAL, GMA Integrated News