BACOLOD City — Access to basic healthcare services in this city has taken a significant step forward with the inauguration of two newly upgraded barangay health stations, strengthening frontline medical services for thousands of residents.
The SM Foundation formally turned over the improved facilities — the Mabini Health Station in Barangay 28 and the ETCS Barangay Health Station in Barangay 16 — to city government officials led by Mayor Greg Gasataya.
The upgraded facilities are expected to serve nearly 27,000 residents across 15 barangays, representing about 25 percent of the city’s communities.
The two stations are part of a broader network of around 30 barangay health stations supervised by the City Health Office (CHO).
Barangay health stations serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing essential services such as medical consultations, maternal and child healthcare, immunizations, and treatment for minor illnesses.
Conie Angeles, executive director for health and medical programs of the SM Foundation, said the enhancements include improved interiors with energy-efficient LED lighting, modern equipment, and more patient-friendly furnishings.
Redesigned layouts were also introduced to streamline consultations and improve patient flow, creating a more efficient and comfortable healthcare environment.
Angeles added that the upgrades are expected to boost the capacity of healthcare workers in delivering preventive care and health education, while also strengthening community trust in public health services.
She noted that the improved facilities will also support participation in national programs such as PhilHealth’s YAKAP initiative, particularly through better integration of electronic medical records.
Barangay health stations have long played a crucial role in grassroots healthcare in the Philippines, serving communities since their institutionalization in 1971.
From vaccination campaigns to nutrition monitoring and family planning, they remain vital in ensuring that essential health services reach even the most localized levels, Angeles said.
With this latest initiative, the SM Foundation continues to expand its nationwide network of renovated health centers — now totaling 228 — reinforcing its commitment to making quality healthcare more accessible, affordable, and responsive to Filipino families.
Mayor Gasataya expressed gratitude for the partnership, emphasizing the wide-reaching impact of the project.
“The renovation of the two health facilities is truly impressive and has a significant impact on the delivery of health services across the 15 barangays,” the mayor said, noting that the improvements will directly benefit a substantial portion of Bacolod’s population.
He clarified that while the facilities were renovated through private sector support, operations will remain under the city government, while the foundation has committed to help maintain the upgraded structures.
During the blessing and turnover ceremony on March 26, the foundation also donated four laptops to support the operations of the health stations.
