Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has recently called for an increase in the proposed 2024 budget for Department of Health in order to ensure proper implementation of the recently enacted Regional Specialty Centers Act.

In the Senate Committee on Finance hearing last 28 September, the lawmaker also stressed the establishment of more Super Health Centers and continuing operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide — all aimed at bringing medical services closer to Filipinos in need.

Go highlighted the importance of Republic Act 11959, known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act he principally sponsored which was signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on 24 August.

The legislation aims to decentralize specialized medical services, making them accessible across all regions.

"I have always mentioned that like the people from Zamboanga, they can now… there is a Heart Center there," said Go, who also stressed the hardships people from remote areas face when seeking specialized healthcare in Manila.

"We know it's very difficult to come here to Manila. They don't have fares," he added.

On the budgetary front, Go stressed the need for adequate funding to establish the specialty centers under the law. He pointed out that while a more substantial fund is expected for 2025, thanks to other sources such as the Asian Development Bank support, budget for next year must be made sufficient to ensure proper initial implementation of the law.

On the other hand, the lawmaker continues to advocate for more Super Health Centers which are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country especially in grassroots communities.

Free consultations would be handled by municipal health offices, local government units, and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation through its Konsulta program.

GM