In a significant move to address the growing demand for medical services in remote areas, the Bangsamoro Parliament approved the establishment of four new hospitals across three provinces in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on December 14. The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to providing equitable healthcare access across the region.
The landmark legislation was spearheaded by BARMM Health Minister and Member of Parliament Dr. Kadil Jojo Sinolinding, Jr. It paves the way for the construction of hospitals in South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi; the Aleem Abdulaziz Mimbantas Memorial Hospital in Lanao del Sur; and two facilities in Maguindanao del Norte—the Northern Kabuntalan General Hospital and the Datu Blah Sinsuat General Hospital.
“This is a hallmark legislation,” said Minister Sinolinding. “These approved bills will pave the way for the construction of these hospitals,” he added, noting that each facility has been allocated a budget of P50 million, with construction set to begin next year.
The initiative aligns with BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim’s vision that “no one shall be left untreated,” underscoring the region’s dedication to ensuring medical care reaches even the most remote communities. Minister Sinolinding emphasized that the project is consistent with the Bagong Pilipinas mantra of bringing healthcare services closer to the people.
Bangsamoro lawmakers expressed optimism and full support for the newly approved hospital bills while also calling for expanded efforts to address healthcare needs in other provinces within BARMM.
As a public health advocate, Minister Sinolinding highlighted the transformative potential of these hospitals in providing critical medical services to underserved populations.
“Healthcare services, consistent with the mantra of the Bagong Pilipinas, are now closer to the people,” he noted.
This development marks another step toward achieving BARMM’s long-term goals for a resilient, inclusive, and people-centered healthcare system, with a special focus on Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA). By ensuring that essential medical services are accessible to those who need them most, the initiative aims to foster a healthier and more equitable future for the Bangsamoro region.