Senators are moving to establish and strengthen health facilities in popular tourist destinations nationwide after meeting with members of the Consular Corps, who highlighted the lack of health facilities in areas like Coron, Palawan.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri prompted the proposal, saying he plans to file a bill addressing the issue.
“How can we invite tourists to enjoy the dive spots and beautiful beaches here and promote it as a center for diving… when we do not have facilities when accidents happen?” Zubiri asked.
He suggested a bill under which provincial hospitals might be renationalized into regional hospitals overseen by the Department of Health (DOH) and outfitted with state-of-the-art facilities to serve both domestic and international tourists and residents.
Senator Christopher Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Health, underscored the pressing need to establish hospitals and comprehensive health facilities within these regions, ensuring both tourists and residents receive the highest healthcare services the community would need.
He highlighted the substantial progress in this direction, particularly in Siargao, where the Siargao Island Medical Center has seen remarkable improvements.
“After championing the passage of Republic Act No. 11500 in the Senate, we’ve witnessed the Siargao Island Medical Center’s transformation, with an increase in bed capacity and upgraded professional healthcare services,” stated Go, who sponsored the bill in Congress.
Moreover, Go remarked that funding has been secured for more than 700 Super Health Centers to be established nationwide within three years.
This was a collective effort among DOH, local governments and fellow lawmakers.
Senator Sonny Angara cited efforts toward providing a health clinic for minor injuries in Siargao, noting its increasing popularity with visitors.
Senator Loren Legarda voiced her support for a collaborative approach, saying: “I would like to associate with that measure… it’s about time that it has a whole Senate approach.
“We take note of the need for tourism … [but] what about the locals? They live there 365 days a year … So, it would address not just two, but all needs,” she said.