The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has granted PHP 5 million to the Province of Pampanga for the purchase of anti-rabies vaccines. The turnover was led by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, alongside Nanay Party-list Representative Florabel Yatco, PCSO General Manager Mel Robles, and PCSO Board Director Imelda Papin. The funds were received by Governor Lilia "Nanay" Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda.
A Nationwide Effort to Combat Rabies
Rabies remains a significant public health concern in the Philippines. With an estimated 59,000 human deaths globally each year, timely vaccination and prevention efforts are critical . The disease is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected animals, with dogs serving as the principal reservoirs . The World Health Organization, along with other international bodies, has set a goal of achieving global elimination of dog-transmitted rabies by 2030 . To support this goal, the PCSO has been actively distributing Patient Transport Vehicles and supporting various medical and public health initiatives, including anti-rabies vaccination drives . The PHP 5 million grant to Pampanga will help local government units procure vaccines and implement prevention programs for Kapampangans.
A Collaborative Turnover in Pampanga
The turnover event was a collaborative effort, with national officials joining provincial leaders to formalize the assistance. Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, who have been at the helm of the provincial government since 2025 , expressed their gratitude for the continued support from the national government. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, who has actively participated in socio-civic work and community outreach , led the turnover along with PCSO officials. The grant demonstrates the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing public health challenges. It also highlights the PCSO's commitment to using its resources for the welfare of Filipinos, having been recognized as the Top 1 Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation in the Philippines for its transparency and social impact .
