SUMISIP, BASILAN — In a major boost to health services in Basilan, Sumisip District Hospital (SDH) has activated its new solar panels, ensuring continuous electricity for lighting, laboratory machines, and operating room equipment—even during power interruptions from BASELCO.
The “lights on” ceremony and inspection were attended by Governor Mujiv Hataman, Vice Mayor Gulam Boy Hataman, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Shariffa Ann Abbas Alvarez, BM Nurkhan Istarul, OPAG Chief Alexis D. Cotales, Provincial Veterinarian Sham Tutuh, representatives from the Provincial Engineering Office, and medical personnel from SDH.
The ₱8-million project, funded through 20% of the provincial development fund, included a complete rehabilitation of the hospital’s electrical wiring. According to Dr. Alvarez, the initiative is a crucial step in protecting vital medical equipment and ensuring faster, safer healthcare delivery for Sumisip and surrounding towns. “This solar and electrical upgrade will significantly enhance our capacity to provide uninterrupted medical services,” she said.
Governor Hataman personally toured the hospital to inspect the upgraded facilities and vital equipment dependent on a stable power supply. BM Nurkhan Istarul, Committee Chair on Health at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, expressed his gratitude, noting that the solar project was the first request made by SDH’s medical staff. He added that the hospital is slated for a Level 1 upgrade by 2026, while Maluso General Hospital is expected to start operations in the third quarter of 2026, further strengthening provincial healthcare services.
Looking ahead, Governor Hataman announced plans to make Lamitan District Hospital fully solar-powered, reinforcing health as one of the key pillar programs under Basilan HELPS, which also prioritizes environmental protection.
“Together, we continue to strengthen health services for every family in Sumisip and across Basilan,” Gov. Hataman said, highlighting the province’s commitment to accessible, reliable, and modern healthcare.