THE Cebu Provincial Government convened a meeting with the chiefs of district and provincial hospitals on Friday, July 25, 2025, to address longstanding gaps in the province’s public healthcare system.
The closed-door dialogue with the 16 hospital chiefs was led by health consultant Nicole “Doc Nikki” Catalan, daughter of Gov. Pamela Baricuatro.
The meeting focused on deficiencies in supplies, equipment and services across Province-run medical facilities.
Catalan, who works pro bono as health consultant, prefers a collaborative approach toward institutional reforms.
“On one hand, it’s encouraging that more people are starting to speak up. Before, many were afraid to file complaints or raise concerns. Now, we can see that people are recognizing the urgency of these issues and are calling for accountability — and that’s a good thing,” said Catalan.
“We ask for understanding. Change does not happen overnight, especially in the government.” Catalan added.
During the meeting, hospital leaders were given time to voice their individual concerns including understaffing, lack of proper equipment and the pressing need for standardized communication protocols between the local hospitals and the Province.
Argao District Hospital Chief Dr. Eric Geyrozaga echoed the concern about resource limitations, noting that their team continues to respond to emergencies even with logistical challenges.
“We follow a protocol. Our first point of contact for transport is the RHU (Regional Health Unit). If they are unavailable, we then coordinate with the barangay. And if there’s still no available transport, then we handle it ourselves. That has never been a problem.” Geyrozaga said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Prudencio Manubag, chief of hospital in Carcar City, explained the issue is not about the facilities themselves, but the shortage of medical professionals.
“We only have four OBs in the province. The problem isn’t the facility — the problem is the lack of doctors,” said Manubag.
Catalan assured them that their input will help craft a long-term roadmap to improve Cebu’s public hospital operations.
She reiterated the Capitol’s commitment to ensuring that every district hospital is equipped and staffed well enough to serve their respective communities.
“We know there is much to improve, but I also believe our personnel are doing their best despite limited resources. We ask for the public’s understanding. Again, change takes time,” Catalan added.
The meeting marks the beginning of a series of province-wide consultations aimed at uplifting the state of local healthcare services.
Recommendations from the session will be submitted to Baricuatro for further evaluation and possible legislative or executive action. / via Jallee Haze Marimon, HNU Intern