ILOILO — At least 28 municipalities, including Passi City, in Iloilo Province now have Department of Health (DOH)-licensed Primary Care Facilities (PCFs), a milestone that provincial health officials say strengthens access to basic health services and advances the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC) at the grassroots level.
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) said the licenses, issued directly by the DOH, ensure that primary care facilities — mostly Rural Health Units — meet required standards on safety, quality, and accessibility.
These standards cover adequate infrastructure and medical equipment, the presence of licensed and DOH-certified health workers, the provision of essential services such as consultations, health promotion, minor procedures, and referrals, as well as compliance with infection control, waste management, and records-keeping policies.
The licensed primary care facilities are located in the municipalities of Badiangan, Balasan, Mina, Lemery, Concepcion, Barotac Viejo, Dumangas, Pototan, Tubungan, Batad, Leganes, Carles, San Joaquin, Lambunao, Ajuy, Zarraga, Barotac Nuevo, Alimodian, Pavia, San Enrique, Dingle, Tigbauan, Banate, Leon, Anilao, Guimbal, Cabatuan, and Passi City.
“This milestone would not be possible without the dedication and hard work of our health workers and local government units, whose unwavering commitment continues to drive the successful implementation of Universal Health Care in the province. We sincerely thank you for your service and perseverance in bringing quality primary care closer to every Ilonggo,” the IPHO said in a statement.
While celebrating the achievement, the IPHO acknowledged that other local government units are still completing the licensing process for their health facilities, assuring them of continued provincial support.
“Rest assured that the Iloilo PHO is with you in the licensing of our health facilities. Let’s move forward stronger, more resilient, and united in ensuring that every community has access to safe, quality, and reliable primary health care,” the office added.
The IPHO also commended the participating municipalities for their role in delivering accessible, quality, and people-centered primary care, describing the development as “a major step forward in advancing Universal Health Care and improving health outcomes for every Ilonggo.”/PN
