NAVOTAS City Mayor John Rey Tiangco announced on Sunday that the Navotas City Hospital (NCH) has beefed up its capacity to provide free dialysis for poor residents.

The mayor said the hospital has eight new hemodialysis machines.

From 15, the city hospital can now accommodate 21 sessions per day for non-infectious patients. One machine will be used for those with infectious diseases.

"We seek to provide the best possible medical service that's why we also strive to keep our equipment and facilities in top shape," Tiangco said.

"However, more than giving them these services, we want Navoteños to take good care of their health to avoid contracting lifestyle diseases and undergoing treatments," he added.

Philhealth members can avail themselves of up to 156 free hemodialysis sessions every year.

Before reaching this limit, 'Navoteño' patients are enrolled in national and local medical assistance programs to help defray the P2,600 cost per session.

Meanwhile, the city chief executive told The Manila Times that he forged a partnership with the Navotas Polytechnic College and all senior high schools for the establishment of a Public Employment Service Office (PESO) help desk.

Tiangco said he signed memorandums of agreement with city schools to strengthen the delivery of employment services to students and new graduates.

"Through the PESO Desks, Navoteño youth will be more guided, prepared, and equipped for the career they wish to pursue," Tiangco said.