DICT launches drone-based medicine delivery in Rizal

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched a drone-assisted medicine delivery program in Barangay Niogan, Pililla town in Rizal province on January 31.

This initiative is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia and aims to address challenges posed by geographic barriers and logistical issues through the SMART Villages and SMART Islands framework.

DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy emphasized that this pilot program will help refine digital healthcare services for geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), ensuring they have access to groundbreaking e-health solutions.

Uy highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in implementing such innovative initiatives, stressing that government efforts alone are insufficient.

Barangay Niogan Chairperson Placido Quitiong noted that the program will facilitate timely delivery of medicines and medical necessities to far-flung areas within their village, benefiting elderly residents, disabled individuals, and those with severe illnesses.