Category: News

PCSO Medical Assistance Beneficiary Now Cancer-Free, Says PCSO Gave Him a ‘New Life’

In a heartwarming testament to the power of hope, resilience, and public service, a former cancer patient who once faced insurmountable odds now stands cancer-free, thanks in large part to the financial support he received from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

For 43-year-old Marvin Reyes, a humble tricycle driver from Laguna, life had always been a test of endurance. But nothing prepared him for the day he was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. What followed was a terrifying journey—one that pushed him to the edge physically, emotionally, and financially. However, with the help of the PCSO’s Medical Assistance Program, Marvin found not only treatment but a renewed sense of purpose.

A Shocking Diagnosis

Marvin’s battle began in early 2022, when he started experiencing persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. At first, he dismissed the symptoms, attributing them to long hours of work and poor eating habits. But when the pain became unbearable, he sought medical advice at a local government hospital. After a series of tests and a colonoscopy, he was given the diagnosis that would change his life: stage 3 colon cancer.

“I was in disbelief,” Marvin recalled. “I had never imagined hearing the word ‘cancer’ from a doctor. I was scared not just for myself but for my wife and two children. I kept thinking, ‘How will we survive this?’”

Like many Filipinos in the lower-income bracket, Marvin had limited resources. His tricycle earnings were just enough to cover daily expenses and his children’s education. The cost of chemotherapy, surgery, and hospital bills was beyond his reach.

Turning to PCSO for Help

It was a social worker at the hospital who introduced Marvin to the PCSO’s Medical Assistance Program. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, known for its various lottery and sweepstakes games, allocates a substantial portion of its revenue to health and welfare services. Through its Individual Medical Assistance Program (IMAP), the agency provides financial aid for hospitalization, chemotherapy, dialysis, surgery, and other medical needs.

With guidance from the hospital staff, Marvin submitted the required documents, including his diagnosis, medical treatment plan, and a letter of request. Within days, he was informed that his chemotherapy sessions and a portion of his surgery expenses would be covered by PCSO.

“It was a blessing,” Marvin said with a smile. “That phone call gave me hope. It was the first time since my diagnosis that I felt like I had a fighting chance.”

The Long Road to Recovery

Undergoing treatment was no easy feat. Marvin endured six cycles of chemotherapy, followed by surgery to remove a section of his colon. Each session left him weak and in pain, but he held on—fueled by the thought of returning to his family and the knowledge that an entire institution was behind him.

His wife, Liza, stood by his side every step of the way. “We were scared,” she said. “But we also felt that God was guiding us through PCSO. They didn’t just help with money; they gave us hope. Every peso they provided was a reminder that Marvin’s life mattered.”

Marvin also became active in support groups at the hospital, sharing his story and encouraging others not to lose hope. “There were days I wanted to give up, but talking to others who were going through the same thing made a big difference,” he shared.

Cancer-Free and Grateful

In late 2024, after nearly two years of treatment and countless hospital visits, Marvin received the news he had been praying for: he was officially cancer-free.

“I cried when the doctor told me,” he recalled. “It felt like being reborn. I had survived one of the darkest chapters of my life.”

As part of his recovery, Marvin has returned to part-time work and now also volunteers with a local cancer support organization. He often speaks to new patients about the importance of early detection, perseverance, and the vital role of institutions like PCSO.

“I tell them, don’t lose hope. Help is out there,” Marvin said. “And I always mention PCSO. Without them, I wouldn’t be here today. They didn’t just save my life—they gave me a new one.”

PCSO: A Lifeline for Thousands

Marvin’s story is just one among thousands of success stories that highlight the impact of PCSO’s charitable mission. Each year, PCSO allocates billions of pesos to fund medical assistance, support public hospitals, purchase ambulances, and contribute to various health programs across the country.

In 2023 alone, the PCSO reported having helped over 400,000 individuals through its IMAP program, disbursing over ₱2.5 billion in medical aid. From cancer patients and dialysis beneficiaries to those in need of heart surgery or orthopedic support, PCSO remains a vital partner in public health.

According to PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles, stories like Marvin’s are the reason the agency continues to push for more inclusive and efficient delivery of services.

“Our mission has always been to serve the people, especially those who are most vulnerable,” Robles said. “Every lotto ticket sold, every sweepstakes game played—it all goes back to helping Filipinos in need. We are committed to being a beacon of hope for our kababayans.”

Challenges and Moving Forward

Despite the positive impact, the PCSO’s Medical Assistance Program is not without challenges. The demand continues to grow, and the agency must balance resources while ensuring fair and efficient service delivery. Moreover, increasing public awareness about the program remains a crucial task.

For Marvin, one of his personal goals is to help spread the word. “Many people don’t even know they can get help from PCSO. I want to change that. If my story can inspire someone to reach out and ask for assistance, then I’ve done something meaningful.”

He also encourages people to support PCSO’s lottery games, knowing firsthand how the proceeds can make a life-saving difference. “I used to think it was just a game. Now I know every ticket sold can help someone like me. It’s not just luck—it’s charity in action.”

A Message of Hope

Marvin now lives a simpler, more grateful life. Every sunrise, every meal with his family, and every quiet moment is a gift. He no longer takes life for granted.

“If you had asked me two years ago if I thought I’d survive, I would’ve said no,” Marvin said. “But now, I wake up every day and thank God, the doctors, my family—and PCSO. They gave me a second chance.”

His journey from despair to healing is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, there are organizations and people willing to help. The PCSO’s continuing commitment to health and welfare is not just a public service—it’s a lifeline.

In a country where medical expenses can cripple even the most hardworking families, Marvin Reyes’s story stands as a beacon of what compassion, proper governance, and public trust can achieve. As he puts it, “They gave me a new life. And now, it’s my turn to live it fully.”