Basilan Province, January 7 — A momentous chapter in Basilan’s healthcare history unfolded as the Basilan General Hospital (BGH) officially transitioned to the Basilan Medical Center (BMC) during a grand renaming ceremony. The event, held at the hospital’s main lobby under the theme “Towards Better Healthcare for Basilan: A Ceremonial Transition to Basilan Medical Center,” highlighted the province’s commitment to providing modern, accessible, and comprehensive medical services.
The ceremony featured Basilan Lone District Representative Mujiv Hataman as the keynote speaker. Representative Hataman emphasized the significance of the upgrade and thanked key contributors to this milestone, including Councilor Candu Muarip, the Department of Health (DOH), Senator Robin Padilla, and Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go. “I know we feel a sense of loss with the transition from BGH, but we should also be joyful as we welcome this new medical center with broader services,” Hataman remarked. “Let us not settle for a 500-bed capacity. We should aspire for a 1,000 to 1,500-bed capacity hospital, envisioning a time when we no longer depend on Zamboanga City or need to transfer patients to Manila.”
Expanded Capacity and Services
The transition, made possible through Republic Act 12056, elevates the hospital’s capacity from 100 to 500 beds, allowing it to provide advanced healthcare services. Dr. Sitti Nurussamsi Amilasan, the Medical Center Chief, expressed her gratitude to Representative Hataman for spearheading the legislative efforts that paved the way for the hospital’s growth. She also acknowledged the groundwork laid by Councilor Candu Muarip in developing the Level II, 100-bed capacity general hospital, which served as a foundation for today’s achievement.
Dr. Amilasan highlighted key advancements made possible through the hospital’s expanded capabilities, including licenses to operate an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and a tertiary clinical laboratory, granted by the DOH in 2024. These upgrades position the BMC as a beacon of hope for quality healthcare within the province.
Ceremonial Highlights
The event commenced with a warm welcome by Chief Nurse Maria Bernardina Idris. OIC Supervising Administrative Officer Eric Bel Sanico provided a historical overview of the institution, tracing its transformation from a general hospital to a premier medical center.
The symbolic unveiling of the BMC’s new logo and name marked the event’s pinnacle. This ceremonial act was led by Representative Hataman, DOH Undersecretary Achilles Gerard Bravo, DOH-IX Regional Director Dr. Joshua Brillantes, former DSWD Assistant Secretary Jade Jamolod, and Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman. The moment was further enriched by the inspiring rendition of the BMC Hymn.
Future Prospects and Initiatives
Undersecretary Bravo underscored the importance of addressing staffing challenges to support the expanded capacity of the BMC. He announced plans to establish Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (BUCAS) centers across Basilan, staffed by BMC personnel. Additionally, he detailed upcoming PhilHealth reforms, such as increased case rates, expanded outpatient services, and enhanced accessibility for repeat visits, all aimed at bolstering healthcare in the region.
Former Assistant Secretary Jamolod, representing Senator Bong Go, reaffirmed the senator’s commitment to healthcare in Basilan, highlighting the Malasakit Center’s role in assisting patients requiring advanced medical attention in Manila.
A Collective Effort
The ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including high-ranking officials, local government representatives, and military and security leaders. Notable attendees included DOH-IX representatives Dr. Augusto Manolo Alpichi and Engr. Domingo, Basilan State College President Haipa Salain, and various provincial and city officials. Their presence underscored the unified dedication to elevating Basilan’s healthcare standards.
A Vision for the Future
The renaming of BGH to BMC symbolizes more than a change in name; it represents a transformative vision for healthcare in Basilan. As Representative Hataman concluded, “This is not just about a name. It is about a future where the people of Basilan have access to the best healthcare services without leaving the province.”