Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the death of a nine-month-old baby in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, allegedly due to medical neglect at the Department of Health (DOH)-run Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital.
"I extend my condolences to the parents of the baby who passed away after allegedly being denied admission three times at Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital, a DOH-run hospital in Tagbilaran City, Bohol," said Senator Go in Filipino.
"It is infuriating and heartbreaking that a baby had to die under such circumstances," Go added. "We cannot allow this to happen again."
The case gained attention after the infant’s mother, Maricel Igang, shared her ordeal on Facebook, detailing how her baby, who had fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, was denied admission three times — on 3, 4, and 5 March — because hospital staff allegedly did not consider the case critical.
On the third visit, she pleaded for admission, but her request was again denied. Her child's condition worsened, and despite emergency efforts, the baby was eventually declared dead.
Senator Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health, urged the DOH to hold accountable those responsible if negligence is proven.
"Every month, we conduct regular Senate Health Committee hearings — from reforms in PhilHealth to the call for the full payment of Health Emergency Allowances for our healthcare workers, and ensuring that our public health establishments have adequate medical facilities, equipment, and qualified professionals," he cited.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with netizens demanding justice for the baby and accountability from hospital officials. The DOH has yet to release a statement on the case.
"However, despite these efforts, many of our ordinary citizens still struggle to access the medical services that our government should be providing. That is why we will not stop until all of these issues are addressed. Remember, health is equivalent to life for every Filipino," he added.