The New Year may not be a joyful one for tens of thousands of Embo residents who find themselves caught in the aftermath of a landmark Supreme Court decision settling a longstanding territorial dispute between Makati and Taguig.

Following an announcement made by the Makati City government on Monday, December 1, it was revealed that residents from 10 Embo barangays would no longer be able to utilize their Yellow Cards.

In a Facebook post, the Makati City government conveyed the unfortunate news in accordance with the Supreme Court’s ruling: “Alinsunod sa decision ng Korte Suprema, ikinalulungkot naming ipaalam sa inyo na simula January 1, 2024 wala nang bisa ang YELLOW CARD na may address sa 10 EMBO barangays maliban kung sila ay mga empleyado ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Makati.”

However, the announcement provided a glimmer of hope by stating that Makati’s health centers would remain open for free consultations until Taguig establishes its own health centers.

The post garnered over 2,000 reactions, predominantly sad emojis, and almost 300 comments as of the latest update.

The Yellow Card, touted as one of the city’s “best social protection benefits,” has been a lifeline for residents, offering government-subsidized healthcare at various facilities, including the city-run Ospital ng Makati (OsMak), barangay health centers, satellite laboratories, and birthing facilities.

According to the city’s website, Yellow Card holders can also be referred to partner facilities like the Makati Medical Center for specialized medical and diagnostic services not available at OsMak. Additionally, the card covers free medicines, including maintenance drugs for conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

Expressing their disappointment, Embo residents took to social media to voice their concerns.

Facebook user Mario Bustarga lamented, “Saklap na balita sa pagsalubong sa bagong taon ng 2024! Salamat City of Makati na kinamulatan na ng 3 henerasyon ng aming pamilya. Still a proud Makatizen!”

Another resident, Cecile Boyles, commented, “Napa kalungkot nman sobra lalo na manganganak ako sa February.”

While many residents were disheartened, some acknowledged the difficult position of the Makati government.

Ana Sophia remarked, “Kalungkot naman. Ginawa ng Makati Govt lahat ng makakaya nila for the people pero may decision na pala ang court na dapan sundin. Kawawa mga tao.”

Netizen Rudy Galanga expressed concern for senior citizens, stating, “Napakalungkot na balita sa pagpasok ng bagong taon-2024 lalo na sa aming mga senior citizen.”

As the affected residents grapple with the implications of this decision, the future remains uncertain for those who have come to rely on the Yellow Card for essential healthcare services.