South Cotabato recognizes key partners in annual ‘Public Health Summit’

KORONADAL, South Cotabato (PIA) — The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) of South Cotabato held its “8th Provincial Health Summit” on November 22, recognizing key partners and stakeholders for their commitment to grassroots health services.

Under the theme “South Cotabato Province-wide Health System: Nagkakaisang Hakbang Tungo sa Kalusugang Pangkalahatan,” the recognition ceremony served as a platform to honor those who have made a difference and to reaffirm “our shared responsibility” for enhancing the province’s health system.

Dr. Ervin Luntao, the Committee Chairperson on Health for South Cotabato, highlighted the province’s significant strides in healthcare during his address at the recent health summit.

The provincial government, he emphasized, prioritizes healthcare and has achieved notable milestones through various health programs and projects that have positively impacted the lives of its residents, made possible by the shared commitment of its partners.

Luntao also shared that South Cotabato has inaugurated a new Integrated Provincial Health Office building in Barangay Paraiso, Koronadal City.

South Cotabato is preparing to construct a state-of-the-art molecular laboratory to focus on HIV, tuberculosis-resistant strains, and emerging diseases.

He also mentioned the recent approval of a P75-million, two-story building at the Norala District Hospital, which is part of a 1-billion-peso loan package. The new facility will include wards, private rooms, and an ICU, elevating the hospital to a Level 2 status.

Meanwhile, the province also plans to introduce an ordinance to improve retirement benefits for South Cotabato health workers, demonstrating the government’s dedication to supporting healthcare professionals.

The official acknowledged that the success of public health programs would not have been possible without the consistent efforts of partners.

The event served not only as a moment of recognition but also as a call to action. Despite celebrating its successes, the province remains committed to sustaining its efforts to deliver equitable and quality healthcare to all. (AMB – PIA Region 12)

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