MisOcc Governor unveils bold health initiatives to enhance social services during SOPA

 

Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental – In a recent State of the Province address, Governor Henry S. Oaminal unveiled key health initiatives aimed at transforming services across Misamis Occidental.

Oaminal emphasized that “health is at the core of our social services,” reinforcing the link between a healthy population and socioeconomic development, echoing Winston Churchill’s belief that “healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have.”

A centerpiece of the address is the expansion of the Free Hospitalization Program. Since its launch in July 2022, over 42,000 individuals have benefited, with financial assistance exceeding 186.5 million pesos.

This program now covers both government and private hospitals, easing the financial burden on families during medical emergencies.

Addressing concerns about hospital funding, Gov. Oaminal assured citizens that the provincial government is pursuing sustainable solutions.

With a hospital budget of approximately 693 million pesos this year, the administration has leveraged national tax allotments and collaborated with local congressmen to secure additional funding.

Partnerships with organizations like the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) further enhance financial support.

The Governor also announced substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure. Improvements at various hospitals have created a more conducive environment for healing. Additionally, 49 doctors and 224 nurses have been hired to bolster local healthcare capacity.

The 2024 budget for drugs and medicines has increased dramatically from 46 million to over 135 million pesos, improving procurement practices and benefiting patients.

One major project is the Asenso Misamis Occidental Medical Center, currently under construction in Talairon, Oroquieta City. With a budget exceeding 1.2 billion pesos, this facility aims to expand the hospital bed capacity from 150 to 500, with completion expected by the first quarter of 2025.

This center will not only enhance local healthcare services but also position Misamis Occidental as a potential medical tourism hub.

Oaminal highlighted significant public health improvements, including near 100% access to safe water and sanitation services, demonstrating a commitment to health governance and education.

In closing, the Governor reaffirmed the administration's dedication to fully implementing the Universal Health Care Act, ensuring all Filipinos have access to quality healthcare.

Under his leadership, Misamis Occidental is set to become a benchmark for health services, aligning healthcare access with broader social and economic goals.

Oaminal expressed gratitude to key partners, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Second District Representative Sancho Fernando Oaminal, and First District Representative Jason Almonte, for their support, emphasizing that collective efforts are vital to achieving these healthcare objectives.

With these initiatives, Governor Oaminal is not just envisioning a healthier future for Misamis Occidental but actively working to make it a reality. (SN/PGMO)