In a historic first for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has officially turned over five cutting-edge, battery-operated, ultra-portable AI X-ray units to the Philippine Navy (PN).
The ceremonial handover, led by PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles and received by Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, marks a massive leap in Navy’s maritime medical capability.
PCSO General Manager Mel Robles said: “These units aren’t just gadgets; they are lifesavers designed to go wherever the Navy goes—from remote outposts to the middle of the sea.”
Weighing a mere 2.4 kg, these units redefine “mobility.” Unlike traditional X-ray machines that require a hospital wing and a massive power grid, these battery-powered marvels are built for the front lines.
They are specifically designed for use aboard sea-borne vessels during emergency situations, with built-in artificial intelligence that provides instant diagnostic leads, allowing for split-second medical decisions when every moment counts.
The portable X-Rays also do not rely on fixed power source, ensuring medical readiness even in the most isolated maritime environments.
As the naval warfare arm of the AFP, the Navy plays a key role in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests while supporting national defense and humanitarian operations.
GM Robles emphasized that this donation, funded through the Medical Equipment Donation Program (MEDP), is the direct result of public’s strong support to PCSO gaming products.
“At PCSO, every peso has a purpose. We are prioritizing partnerships that save lives in remote areas. This is the first of its kind in the entire AFP, and it ensures our sailors and marines have top-tier diagnostics even in the middle of the ocean,” said GM Robles.
Vice Admiral Ezpeleta hailed the donation as a critical upgrade to the Navy’s disaster response and combat casualty care.
By bringing the “hospital” to the ship, the Navy can now diagnose injuries or illnesses (like TB) on-site, reducing the need for risky medical evacuations.
GM Robles also highlighted that the donation reflects their continuing commitment to strengthening institutions that serve the people, particularly those operating in challenging and resource-limited environments.
