MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH), headed by newly appointed Health Secretary Teodoro Javier Herbosa, handed over a total of ₱185 million to the province of Ilocos Sur during the health chief’s visit to the renowned heritage city of the Philippines on July 8, 2023.
Of the allocated funds, ₱150 million was granted to the Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital – Gabriela Silang for the completion of the 5-Storey Medical Arts Pavilion.
Jeremias C. Singson, the representative of Ilocos Sur, received the funds along with several boxes of medicines.
The remaining ₱35 million was delivered to the city government of Vigan as an additional contribution for the establishment of the Vigan City Primary Care Facility (PCF)-Infirmary.
For his part, Mayor Jose C. Singson, Jr., accepted the funds and was also presented with five sets of medical equipment each, including a fetal doppler, an infant weighing scale, a weighing scale with BMI calculator, an examining table, a dressing cart, and an instrument cabinet worth P50,000 each.
These resources were distributed among four barangays in the city: Camangaan, Capangpangan, San Pedro, and Brgy. II.
Secretary Herbosa emphasized the need to develop modern health facilities to advance healthcare treatment in the country.
He stated that a modern primary health care facility should have a minimum of 15 beds and provide comprehensive services, equipped for disease diagnosis, and offering medical and surgical treatment for the sick and injured.
During the groundbreaking ceremony of the PCF Infirmary, Herbosa expressed his support for local chief executives who continuously address the healthcare needs of their constituents.
He stressed the importance of collaboration and support from all local government units (LGUs), partner agencies, and stakeholders to meet the health needs of Filipinos and achieve a “Healthy Pilipinas” for the new Philippines.
Secretary Herbosa also visited the construction site of the ongoing Medical Arts Pavilion at the Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital-Gabriela Silang.
Meanwhile, DOH-Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco highlighted the significance of strengthening primary health care in communities. It enables health systems to address individuals’ health needs, ranging from health promotion and disease prevention to treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
Sydiongco expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the local government units in Ilocos Sur and their dedication as leading implementers of DOH’s health programs in the Ilocos region. (ai/mnm)
