The Iloilo Provincial Government (IPG) is prioritizing health and community development through two major initiatives: the establishment of hemodialysis centers in provincial and district hospitals and the construction of Family and Youth Development Centers (FYDC) in key localities.
Recognizing the growing burden of kidney disease in the province, the IPG is working to make hemodialysis treatment more accessible and affordable. The proposed centers aim to address the challenges faced by patients who currently travel long distances and bear steep costs to access life-saving dialysis.
In a recent committee hearing, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Committees on Economic Affairs and Investments, Health and Sanitation, and Ways and Means met with the IPG Public-Private Partnership (PPP) negotiation team to discuss the plan.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., a strong advocate for healthcare innovations, envisions this initiative as a step toward decentralizing healthcare services and improving access in rural areas.
Currently, Iloilo’s provincial and district hospitals lack sufficient capacity to meet the growing demand for dialysis services, forcing many patients to seek treatment in private facilities in Iloilo City. The proposed centers will ensure that even residents in remote towns can receive timely medical care.
The IPG plans to conduct feasibility studies and consultations with stakeholders before finalizing the project. If implemented, the initiative could significantly enhance healthcare accessibility across the province.
Meanwhile, the provincial government is also focusing on community development with the establishment of Family and Youth Development Centers (FYDC) in San Dionisio and Passi.
Defensor, joined by Provincial Population Officer lawyer Ruel Von D. Superio and Provincial Engineer Romeo C. Andig, recently turned over checks worth P5 million each to San Dionisio Mayor Darwin E. Bajada and Passi City representatives. The funds will be used to construct two-story facilities designed to support family and youth programs.
The FYDCs will serve as venues for Pre-Marriage Orientation and Counseling (PMOC) sessions, youth training programs, and other population and development activities.
The centers will also house offices for Population Program Officers, Barangay Service Point Officers, and Local Youth Development Offices, as well as provide meeting spaces for the Sangguniang Kabataan and Local Youth Development Councils.