The provincial government of Negros Occidental through the Provincial Health Office awarded the top performing local government units (LGUs), hospitals and stakeholders who excel in the field of public health and safety.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, together with Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Ernell Tumimbang, led the awarding ceremony held at the Negros Residences in Bacolod City on Tuesday.

Lacson lauded the health workers for their perseverance to balance the pandemic response and the maintenance of preventive, curative, and other essential health services.

LGUs, health offices and hospitals were cited for their excellence in the National Immunization Program, Family Planning, Newborn Screening, Nutrition, Adolescent Health Program, Tuberculosis, and Mental Health, among others.

“As we celebrate this milestone, let us make this event an opportunity to renew our commitment to serve more in the best of our capacities,” said Lacson.

“Medical care is not a trade good and there should be no choice between illness and health for the Negrenses,” he added.

The governor also assured the health workers that they can count on the provincial government for empowerment, assistance, and protection to make the health care system more relevant to the needs of time and people./WDJ