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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Luzon devider Upgraded Laoag City health unit expands care access for 35,000 residents

Upgraded Laoag City health unit expands care access for 35,000 residents

Published Nov 8, 2025 12:59 pm  |  Updated Nov 8, 2025 01:02 pm
THE newly renovated Laoag City RHU III, transformed through the support of the SM Foundation, is set to become a primary healthcare facility. The upgraded center now features properly designated clinical areas and a comfortable new receiving area for patients.
THE newly renovated Laoag City RHU III, transformed through the support of the SM Foundation, is set to become a primary healthcare facility. The upgraded center now features properly designated clinical areas and a comfortable new receiving area for patients.
Bridging the healthcare gap in Ilocos Norte, the Laoag City RHU III Primary Care Facility (PRF) and Birthing Home has reopened its doors after a full-scale renovation led by the SM Foundation.
The renovation introduced updates to the facility’s interior, including new LED lighting fixtures, modern appliances, and comfortable, patient-centered furnishings, along with the strategic use of air-cleaning paints in key areas to help maintain a sanitary environment.
The layout was also reconfigured to improve patient flow and support more efficient consultations and treatments.
Among the key parts of the project was the overhaul of the birthing facility to meet standards set by the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth.
The enhancement is expected to support RHU III’s application for Primary Care Facility (PCF) accreditation and enable participation in PhilHealth’s YAKAP Program for expanded healthcare coverage.
Through the SM Foundation’s DigiKonsulta, Laoag City RHU III PRF and Birthing Home is now better equipped to pursue accreditation and prepare for the eventual implementation of the PhilHealth’s YAKAP program. The DigiKonsulta initiative also aims to help enhance patient management and recordkeeping.
Additional enhancements done by the foundation included the installation of a rainwater catchment system for sustainable water use and the rollout of its DigiKonsulta to support remote medical consultations and the digitalization of patient records.
Established in 2018, RHU III was designed to serve 23 barangays on the south side of the Padsan River or Laoag River, which had limited access to basic healthcare.
It offers preventive and primary care services, including immunization, disease surveillance, free consultations, dental care, and maternal health programs.
The improvements implemented by the foundation boost the RHU III’s plan to expand its capacity as a primary care provider for more than 35,000 residents.

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Laoag City Ilocos Norte SM Foundation
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