COTABATO CITY—Bangsamoro Parliament approved on Dec. 14, the creation of four new hospitals across three provinces in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to address the growing demand for medical services, particularly in remote areas.
Bangsamoro lawmakers expressed hope and support for the newly approved hospital bills but also called for more initiatives to address healthcare needs in other provinces across BARMM.
The landmark legislation, announced by BARMM Health Minister and Member of Parliament Dr. Kadil Jojo Sinolinding, Jr., sets the groundwork for hospitals in South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi; Aleem Abdulaziz Mimbantas Memorial Hospital in Lanao del Sur; and two facilities in Maguindanao del Norte — the Northern Kabuntalan General Hospital and Datu Blah Sinsuat General Hospital.
“This is a hallmark legislation,” Minister Sinolinding declared.
“These approved bills will pave the way for the construction of these hospitals,” he added, noting that each facility will receive a P50 million budget, with construction beginning next year.
The initiative aligns with Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim’s vision that “no one shall be left untreated,” reinforcing the region’s commitment to providing equitable medical services, especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA).
“Healthcare services, consistent with the mantra of the Bagong Pilipinas, are now closer to the people,” Minister Sinolinding emphasized.
As a public health advocate, Sinolinding highlighted that these hospitals would ensure critical medical care reaches even the most remote communities.
Accordingly, this development marks another significant step toward achieving the region’s goals for a resilient, inclusive, and people-centered healthcare system. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO with reports from MOH/BTA)
