SAN Simon Mayor Abundio Punsalan Jr. is set to allocate the Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) received by the municipality for the establishment of a public dialysis center.
The PCF is the cash incentive awarded by Department of the Interior and Local Government to Seal of Good Local Governance winners.
Each municipality receives P2.3 million, which must be earmarked for worthwhile projects that will benefit constituents, especially the marginalized sector.
In this town, Punsalan said the funds will be used for the purchase of dialysis machines and other equipment necessary for the operation of the center.
"There were funds already allocated for the construction of the structure and purchase of dialysis machines courtesy of Department of Health, non-government organizations, and our local funds. But we will be using the PCF to buy additional machines so we can cater to more dialysis patients," he said.
Punsalan said he is prioritizing the construction and immediate opening of the health facility to finally ease the financial burden of patients who undergo dialysis treatment every week.
He said dozens of Simonians are diagnosed with kidney problems and have to undergo costly treatment three times a week, aside from the maintenance medicines they also have to take.
"Dialysis treatment roughly costs P2,500 per session. That is three times a week, so that is P30,000 per month. With the opening of our dialysis center, we will not only help them save money, but we are also saving their lives," Punsalan said.
Punsalan is positive that the health facility will be operational and can start serving patients before the year ends.
Once opened, Simonians with kidney problems can avail of dialysis sessions for free, the mayor added.