By Anthony A. Araos
helpful.”
The simple truth is that only a few folks in Lagawe (and not other Ifugao towns) have an idea on what is the Super Health Center. But not on Super Man. Most Ifugao folks knew now the facts about its significance than that.
Imagine a distant province without information on the all-important Super Health Center. I couldn’t be clearer in this point. The facts themselves are quite simple. And the message is rather profound and truly touches the heart.
There has been a very significant interest in the utilization of the Super Health Center program in so many other provinces, but, not in Ifugao. Yet, the Super Health Center is incredibly helpful.
So while in theory local candidates are professing their commitment to advance the health agenda in their localities, in fact it is otherwise.
Past revisited for now then voters asked poll aspirants on solutions for lingering health woes, there were answers. Back then, they offered explanations, plans and platforms. Does that sound hopelessly old-fashioned? Do you consider why few educated folks here might be concerned in poverty-stricken towns as this one? Read along to know why.
The concept of the Super Health Center stemmed from the realities on the countryside.
The Super Health Center offers primary care, early disease detection, minor surgical procedures, diagnostic services and vaccination as well as maternal and child care.
Major diseases can easily be prevented if treated early in medical facilities. Helping someone from an economically disadvantaged village by way of this government-run facility is most helpful. The Super Health Center certainly brings health care services much closer to the people. In other words, here’s a bright spot in the never-ending effort to make quality medical services accessible to Filipinos outside of the National Capital Region and other urban areas. Help the poor, needy and sick is the greatest benefit.
There is confidence from some concerned individuals that the Super Health Center offers compelling reasons to invest in the program.
If the Super Health Center is beneficial for the people, why are most local candidates not talking about it in their campaign sorties?
What more promising, however, is that there is a chance of having one or two candidates who shall support this cause after the May 12, 2025 midterm elections. It is my fervent hope and prayer for them to win and unlock great opportunities for discerning stakeholders looking to expand its portfolio with a premium, high value character. We must consider that possibility carefully.
Once again, the public health care program needs urgent attention and enhancement. Here are a few recommendations
Turn the state-owned Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth Corp.) into a science-based and transparent health care system. Hasten now the rollout of universal health-care system. Likewise, encourage public-private partnerships (PPP) in the implementation of the Universal Health Care Law. Establish more tertiary hospitals, especially in the Cordillera Administrative Region. I herewith urge the national government to put up a public hospital in the popular tourism town of Banaue in Ifugao. Moreover, upgrade the “Volunteer” status of Barangay Health Workers and other related personnel. Their stipends are shockingly low! There is a need to provide them hazard pay and subsistence allowance. This is essential for their well-being and performance of their duties. This is a measure of protecting their rights and in their access to and enjoyment of opportunities, benefits and privileges. I am not standing down when their well-being are at risk. In time, it pays to recognize their sacrifices and perseverance, and give them ample reasons not to feel worthlessness. Such is driven by accountable, inclusive and transformative governance. Ill-being of the people is the nation’s concern. Leadership competence serves a vital purpose.**
