Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso is planning to modernize and revive 44 health centers across the city as part of efforts to strengthen community-based healthcare services.

Domagoso bared the plan during a meeting with barangay chairmen from District 3 who are members of Guardians of Y at the Manila City Hall.

The mayor said boosting the capacity of community health centers would help decongest hospitals and bring essential medical services closer to residents at the barangay level.

The mayor noted that many of the city’s health centers have either deteriorated or stopped operating over the years, limiting access of residents to basic healthcare services at the community level.

“Priority ko na buhayin ang mga health center kaya binabawi ko isa-isa. Iyong mga pinatay na health center, bubuhayin ko ulit (reviving the health centers is a priority for me, which is why I am reclaiming them one by one. Those that were shut down will be brought back to life," Domagoso said. 

He also reminded barangay officials that the city government remains ready to assist constituents in need through its Kaagapay Program.

He said the planned modernization would include improving facilities, ensuring the availability of medical equipment, and strengthening the presence of healthcare personnel in barangays.

Domagoso also highlighted the role of barangay officials in identifying residents who need immediate medical attention, particularly senior citizens, children, and indigent families.

He added that bringing services closer to communities would not only reduce hospital congestion but also allow earlier intervention for common illnesses and prevent complications.

Barangay leaders, for their part, welcomed the initiative and expressed readiness to coordinate with the city government to ensure the success of the program.

The meeting also served as a venue to discuss other health-related concerns in their respective communities, including access to medicines and the need for regular medical missions.