South Cotabato, Philippines — As he begins his last term, Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. envisions securing long-term progress for South Cotabato by institutionalizing the flagship programs on health services, implementing electronic medical records that can be accessed even at the household level.
This initiative aims to allow health workers to monitor patients remotely and provide assistance without requiring them to go to the hospital.
“Upang masiguro na yung may mga karamdaman ay hindi na kailangang dalhin pa sa ospital dahil maaari na silang bigyan ng assistance,” Governor Tamayo said.
Digitalization of hospitals plays a vital role in advancing the implementation of the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law, as it enables the delivery of quality health services to more patients, according to a healthcare expert.
One of the major tools in this shift is the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, a relatively new technology now adopted by some hospitals in the Philippines. EMRs streamline hospital operations by integrating various systems and allowing instant access to patient information, improving efficiency and patient care.
However, Governor Tamayo reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining free hospitalization at the provincial hospital and across the three district hospitals.
He also acknowledges that while the ordinances for free education and free hospitalization fall under the jurisdiction of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, they are considering some options to institutionalize these programs.
“Iyan yung gusto nating mangyari na ma-institutionalized ang free education at free hospitalization,” he affirmed. “Susubukan natin gawan ng paraan.”
Furthermore, Governor Tamayo emphasized the urgency of executing these plans during his term to ensure continuity of services for the next administrations.
“Kailangan talaga na ma-establish ito within three years of my term,” he said. “Dahil pag na-execute natin ito, susundin nalang ito ng susunod na uupo at sigurado nang protektado ang ating probinsya.”
Looking ahead, Governor Tamayo expressed confidence that the next three years will be a period of intense development and transformation for South Cotabato.
“Ma-busy ang probinsya sang South Cotabato for the next three years,” he declared. “Mag double-time ako nga ma execute ang aton nga development plans within my term, para pag pahuway ko, manami man nga makita ang South Cotabato nga institutionalized na.”
With a vision grounded in sustainable governance, Governor Tamayo’s second term is anchored to shape a more secure and self-sufficient South Cotabato, driven by institutional reforms and people-centered programs.
