By CESAR JOLITO III

A senator underscored the need to strengthen the country’s health service delivery network during her visit to the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH) in Bacolod City.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health, said the move is essential to fully realize the promises of the Universal Health Care (UHC) law, particularly in ensuring access to quality and affordable healthcare for all Filipinos.

The senator also pointed out the need to closely monitor the conditions of public hospitals across the country.

“It is important that we know the real situation of our public hospitals so that the promise of Universal Health Care can truly be fulfilled for our people,” she said.

During her visit, CLMMRH Medical Center chief II Dr. Joan E. Cerrada presented an overview of the hospital’s role as the primary referral center in Negros Island Region and its ongoing initiatives to expand services.

Infrastructure updates were also tackled, with Engineer Roy dela Torre briefing the senator on ongoing and proposed projects aimed at improving patient care and capacity.

Planning Officer III Karen Reales further outlined the hospital’s 2026 budget proposal.

Hontiveros toured several hospital facilities, engaging with both patients and staff to assess their concerns firsthand.

A hospital statement said her visit emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between the Department of Health, the Senate, and local health institutions to ensure safe, efficient and patient-centered hospital services.

The senator assured CLMMRH officials of her office’s support in pushing for measures and resources that would strengthen health systems not only in Negros but across the country./CJ, WDJ