BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City Council has approved on first reading a proposed ordinance that seeks to strengthen patient rights and ensure compassionate healthcare support for residents during hospitalization and medical emergencies.
The proposed measure, titled the “Bacolod City Right to Care Ordinance of 2026,” aims to institutionalize a more inclusive and patient-centered healthcare system by allowing competent adults to formally designate trusted healthcare partners, caregivers, or representatives.
The ordinance was authored by Councilor Caesar Distrito and co-authored by Councilors Celia Flor, Em Ang, and Roberto Rojas.
Distrito said the proposal recognizes the realities faced by many Bacolodnons who rely on trusted companions and caregivers who may not necessarily be legally recognized relatives.
“This ordinance is about dignity, compassion and respect for patient autonomy,” Distrito said.
He noted that many senior citizens, persons with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, solo individuals, and people living alone depend on trusted companions and caregivers.
“This measure ensures that their voices, choices and support systems are respected,” he added.
Under the proposal, residents may formally appoint healthcare representatives through notarized documents, healthcare authorization forms, advance healthcare directives, or digital registration under the city’s proposed Right to Care Program.
The ordinance also seeks to recognize hospital visitation rights for designated healthcare partners; strengthen emergency healthcare coordination; prevent discrimination in healthcare settings; establish a secure digital registry and verification system; and create complaint and grievance mechanisms for violations of patient rights.
Healthcare institutions will also be encouraged to conduct anti-discrimination and sensitivity training for their personnel.
The measure is anchored on constitutional guarantees on human dignity, equality, health and privacy, as well as national laws protecting senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable sectors.
If enacted, the ordinance will direct the Bacolod City Health Office to implement the Bacolod City Right to Care Program in coordination with other city offices, healthcare institutions and civil society organizations.
Flor, Ang and Rojas expressed support for the proposal, citing the need for more inclusive healthcare policies that recognize modern caregiving realities and diverse family structures.
Once approved, Bacolod City will join other local government units nationwide that have adopted “Right to Care” policies aimed at promoting healthcare inclusion, protecting patient rights and advancing compassionate governance./PN
