MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Healthcare workers in Lanao del Sur are calling on Bangsamoro lawmakers to support Parliament Bill No. 257, a measure aimed at establishing the Aleem Abdulazis S. Mimbantas Memorial Hospital in Masiu, a fifth-class municipality that has long struggled wi inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
Currently, residents of Masiu and its neighboring municipalities need to travel long distances to access essential medical services.
With a population of over one million, Lanao del Sur’s existing five government hospitals, which have over 600 beds, are struggling to meet the healthcare demands of the community.
Dr. Faisal Idris, chief of Lanao del Sur provincial hospital, reiterated the urgency of the proposed measure, noting that the province’s healthcare facilities are overstretched and unable to cater fully to the needs of its residents.
The proposed Aleem Abdulazis S. Mimbantas Memorial Hospital will initially offer 50 beds and seek to bring medical care closer to those in need.
The hospital’s establishment is expected to reduce the travel burden on Masiu residents, who frequently endure long trips for medical consultations and treatments.
Sailanie Alauya from the Marawi Rehabilitation Program added that the new hospital would benefit not just Masiu residents but also displaced individuals within the municipality.
Lanao del Sur’s Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Alinader Minalang, outlined the indirect benefits of establishing the hospital, including job creation for both medical and administrative roles, which could enhance the socio-economic conditions of the Bangsamoro people.
Minalang recommended conducting a feasibility study to ensure the hospital’s operational viability and long-term sustainability.
Member of Parliament Marjanie Macasalong emphasized the strategic location of the proposed hospital near Lake Lanao, which would facilitate the implementation of a lake ambulance service.
Said Shiek, one of the bill’s principal authors, said that the hospital will help improve emergency responses, disaster management, and the handling of emerging diseases.
The hospital will be named in honor of Aleem Abdulazis S. Mimbantas, a native of Masiu and a key figure who dedicated his life to the struggle for Bangsamoro’s homeland.
Mimbantas served as vice chair for military affairs of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. (BTA/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
