First District Health Initiatives Advanced as Bancoro Meets DOH Officials for Hospital, Emergency and Medical Facility Support

Daphne Santuyo

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay – Efforts to strengthen healthcare services in the First District of Zamboanga Sibugay gained momentum following a meeting between First District Representative Atty. Marlo C. Bancoro and key officials of the Department of Health (DOH) to discuss priority health projects and interventions for the district.

Bancoro met with DOH Undersecretary Mary Ann Maestral on Tuesday, July 14, at the DOH Central Office in Sta. Cruz, Manila, where they tackled various initiatives aimed at improving access to quality healthcare, especially for communities facing geographic and transportation challenges.

Among the major proposals discussed was the acquisition of a sea ambulance to provide emergency medical transport for residents in island and coastal areas. The initiative is expected to address the difficulty faced by patients who require immediate medical attention but are hindered by distance and limited transportation options.

The lawmaker also pushed for the establishment of a Level III Hospital in Malangas, which would provide expanded healthcare services and reduce the need for residents to travel outside the district for more advanced medical care.

Other health-related projects discussed included the completion of the Malangas Emergency Infirmary, the possible acquisition of a CT Scan Machine to improve diagnostic services, and additional assistance under the Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) Program to support hospitals and patients within the district.

Joining the discussion were officials from the DOH Health Facility Development Bureau, including Engr. Maximo Dan, Ms. Wafa Bilao, and Mr. Dave Odicta, who provided insights on health facility development and possible government support for the proposed initiatives.

Bancoro said the meeting forms part of his continuing efforts to strengthen partnerships with national government agencies and bring more responsive healthcare programs to the people of Zamboanga Sibugay.

With the district composed of both mainland and island communities, he emphasized the importance of developing healthcare systems that are accessible, reliable, and capable of responding to the needs of every resident.

The congressional office continues to pursue strategic health investments aimed at improving medical services, upgrading facilities, and ensuring that quality healthcare reaches even the most geographically challenged areas of the First District.