GOV. Mendoza (left) with health workers at Dr. Amado B. Diaz Provincial Foundation Hospital in Midsayap. (Provincial Government of Cotabato)
DAVAO CITY – The provincial government of Cotabato unveiled the Renal Dialysis Unit of the Dr. Amado B. Diaz Provincial Foundation Hospital (DABDPFH) in Midsayap on Monday, May 11.
Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, who led the inauguration, said that the provincial government initially allocated P27 million for dialysis equipment and installation. An additional P6.5 million was utilized for the repair of the building, Mendoza added.
“Our intention really is to make the dialysis center accessible and free for the indigent patients,” the governor said.
The facility can accommodate up to 16 patients a day, Mendoza said.
Mendoza said that the provincial government is eyeing to establish dialysis facilities in all three districts of the province.
She said that third district Rep. Maria Alana Samatha Santos is working to complete dialysis centers at the University of Southern Mindanao Hospital in Kabacan and the district hospital in M'lang.
“With all the noise going around today, while we clamor for justice and fairness, the closest justice and fairness we can show is toward our patients,” the governor said, referring to ongoing political developments. “No matter how big or small our role, let us give our very best and that’s justice and fairness. Work as a team and show compassion at all times.”
Board Member Shirlyn Macasarte said that the dialysis facility is one of the priority programs of the provincial government.
Macasarte added that it is one of the governor's campaign promises when she sought reelection in 2022.
She added that the provincial government first established the Cotabato Provincial Dialysis Center serving 35 patients per day.
"Ang buong imprastraktura at mga makina ng dialysis center sa Amado Hospital ay pinondohan ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Cotabato (The dialysis center was funded by the provincial government)," said Macasarte, chairwoman of the Committee on Health of the provincial council.
"This only proves that in Cotabato province, we fulfill our promises and we always ensure to extend quality, fast, and free health services to our constituents," she added.