ANTIQUE — Gov. Paolo Javier has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare services in the province by addressing the persistent shortage of medicines and medical supplies at the Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital (ASMGH).
Speaking during the flag-raising ceremony at the New Capitol on Monday, October 27, Javier said ensuring the availability of essential medicines in the province-run hospital will be a key focus moving forward.
“We’re done with 100 days. Now, where are we going? We will focus on health,” he declared.
To tackle the problem, the governor announced plans to establish the Padayon Center, an initiative designed to provide medicines and medical supplies not available in the hospital’s inventory. The center aims to ensure that all patients receive complete treatment without having to spend out of pocket.
Javier first introduced the concept of the Padayon Center during his State of the Province Address (SOPA) on October 20.
According to the governor, he personally visited patients admitted to ASMGH and learned that many were forced to purchase their own medicines and supplies from outside pharmacies, despite the hospital’s zero-balance billing policy.
“While the zero-balance billing program is good, it’s not enough if patients still have to buy what the hospital lacks,” Javier said. “We want every Antiqueño to truly feel the services of the government. They should not have to reach into their own pockets before leaving the hospital.”
The governor said efforts are underway to secure funding for the Padayon Center, which is expected to be operational by 2026.
Through this initiative, Javier hopes to end the recurring shortage of hospital medicines and supplies, ensuring that Antiqueños receive full and accessible healthcare services from the provincial government./PN
