BASILAN — Governor Mujiv Hataman has expressed support for the proposed creation of hospitals in the municipalities of Tipo-Tipo and Maluso, calling it a major milestone in bringing quality healthcare closer to underserved communities in Basilan.
The governor issued the statement following the approval at the committee level of two bills in the Bangsamoro Parliament seeking to establish healthcare facilities in the said municipalities. Hataman commended the initiative, emphasizing its importance in strengthening the province’s healthcare system.
“This is a significant step forward for the province of Basilan and will bring much-needed healthcare services closer to our people, especially those in far-flung and underserved areas,” Hataman said.
The proposed hospitals are expected to enhance medical access in areas long hampered by geographical isolation and limited infrastructure. With many residents traveling hours to reach provincial hospitals, local health facilities will provide life-saving services and reduce the burden on existing medical centers.
However, Hataman also raised concerns over a provision in the current versions of the bills known as the “sunset clause,” which would eventually turn over the management and operations of the new hospitals to the local government units (LGUs).
While supportive of devolution as a pillar of good local governance, Hataman cautioned against prematurely shifting the operational burden to LGUs, particularly in island provinces like Basilan, where fiscal and logistical challenges are significant.
“We caution that prematurely shifting the burden of hospital operations to LGUs, particularly without clear and sustained funding mechanisms, may hamper the effective delivery of services,” he said.
The governor pointed out that many LGUs in Basilan may not be equipped to handle the long-term operational and financial responsibilities of managing hospitals. He urged the Bangsamoro Parliament to consider the original versions of the bills filed by former Member of Parliament Amir Mawallil, which he believes offer a more realistic and sustainable approach.
Hataman also called for a thorough dialogue and consultation between the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and the Provincial Government of Basilan before the proposed measures reach plenary deliberation.
“Ultimately, we share a common goal: to ensure that every Basileño has access to quality healthcare,” he stressed. “We look forward to working closely with the regional government to ensure that these new hospitals will be sustainable, effective, and truly responsive to the needs of our people.”
The governor’s appeal underscores the critical importance of not only expanding healthcare infrastructure but also ensuring its sustainability — a necessary step in the ongoing effort to improve health outcomes in the Bangsamoro region.