Koronadal, South Cotabato– Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. has emphasized the need for a government hospital in Koronadal City, citing its importance in improving healthcare services and decongesting the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital.
During a recent press conference, Tamayo confirmed that discussions regarding the hospital’s funding and approval are ongoing. He acknowledged that the process must go through the city council and that the election period has caused some delays. However, he assured that the plan remains a priority.
“Nag istorya kami ni mayor, on process pa ang donation, e approve pa na sang sanggunian tapos election period pa pero maabot gid na. Kay bal-an mo, indi lang siya gusto, indi na siya wants but it is part of the needs sang aton nga probinsya. Responsibilidad namon nga ipa tindog na,” Tamayo stated.
The governor explained that the provincial hospital, a level 2 facility, should focus on handling more critical cases rather than minor illnesses that could be treated at infirmary hospitals or a city-level facility. He also pointed out that some municipalities, like Tupi, already have their own government hospitals, providing free healthcare to their residents.
The governor also highlighted the positive impact of having additional healthcare facilities. He explained that even a hospital with a 50-bed capacity could help decongest the provincial hospital, ensuring better healthcare services for South Cotabateños.
“Imagina kung may ara kita sang 50 lang bed capacity, ang 50 bed capacity pag e maximize muna naga abot na 100. So kung 100 patient ibawas mo sa provincial hospital, magiging matawhay kung mabawasan sang 100 patients,” he explained.
Tamayo assured that the provincial government is ready to support the initiative, particularly in the hospital’s construction. However, he clarified that its management should be under the city government to ensure sustainability.
He reiterated that this initiative is aimed at strengthening healthcare services in South Cotabato and is part of the province’s long-term commitment to improving public health facilities for “tama kag maayo nga serbisyo”. ( with reports from Ronalyn Novabus)
