LAGAWE, Ifugao– The proposed Ifugao provincial pharmacy law for the poor folks in Ifugao which seeks to give them access to quality yet affordable medicines maybe included in the list of priorities of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, according to Board Member Victor Bunnol Jr.
The proposed ordinance on the establishment of a pharmacy operated by the provincial government intends to address problems faced by the people that stand in the way of maintaining a healthy life.
Committee on Health and Sanitation chair Bunnol said such legislation would hasten the delivery of basic services to the people, most especially the poor.
“The passage of a law directing establishment of the Ifugao Provincial Pharmacy is extremely important if we are to support the health care program of the government,” he said.
In an exclusive interview with the ZigZag Weekly, the young and articulate lawmaker of Lamut said that if the proposed measure is passed and implemented, it will complement the health agenda of the Mayam-o administration.
“The intent of doctors, nurses, dentists and all others in the health profession to serve our people motivates me even more to remain steadfast in developing a plan for timely and relevant information that I hope will respond to the needs of many,” Bunnol asserted.
Under the well-motivated plan, a licensed pharmacist shall manage the operations of the pharmacy to be open 24-hours a day, from Monday to Sunday.
Funds used in putting up the facility shall come from the coffers of the provincial government. The provincial government has enough financial muscle to fund the establishment of this all-important facility. As envisioned, the pharmacist’s administrators will be no less than the provincial government officials.
The proposed measure is expected to be backed up initially by the committee on health and sanitation’s vice chairman in the person of Board Member James Frederick Dulnuan as well as Board Members Noli Maguiwe, Federico Juguiad Jr. and Robert Humiwat who sits as its members.
Most Filipinos are still buying the lowest priced medicines due to economic difficulties.
The plan appears to be proof of the continuing efforts of Board Member Bunnol Jr. as well as Governor Pedro Mayam-o and Vice Governor Jose Jordan Gullitiw to make sure that the people’s needs are being attended. Together with said officials, the health sector has a significant role to play in this project. on this score.
The question is, will the other members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan withhold their support to the initiative? **By Anthony A. Araos
