The Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Hospital Management Office (HMO), officially kicked off the 2025 National Hospital Week with a simple yet meaningful program held at the Capitol lobby this morning.
Chiefs from all 13 provincial government-run hospitals, along with select employees, gathered to mark the occasion which was graced by Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., Vice Governor Nathalie Ann Debuque, Provincial Administrator Raul Banias and Board Members Nielito Tupas and Rolando Distura.
A key highlight of the celebration is the exhibit mounted by the 13 provincial hospitals, proudly showcasing their core services, notable achievements, and institutional milestones.
In his message, Banias reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for increased budget allocations for the 13 hospitals to further improve their services.
He also pushed for the increase of plantilla positions in the hospitals noting that half of the employees are contract of services and job orders.
“We have employees that have been in service for 25 years, but are still contractuals,” Banias noted.
Governor Defensor, on the other hand, thanked all the hospital personnel for doing a good job despite the challenges in their work.
He reminded the hospital chiefs and employees about the three things that he promotes in the provincial capitol and other provincial government edifices: order, cleanliness and functionality.
He also acknowledged Banias’ statement that hospitals should get increased budget allocations saying that hospitals should be given a big share in the National Tax Allocation (NTA).
The governor emphasized that his administration consistently allocates a significant portion of the provincial budget each year to upgrade hospital facilities, ensuring that constituents have access to enhanced healthcare services.
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