By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region and the City Government of Dagupan have formalized a series of strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening healthcare services for Dagupeño families. The agreements, signed during a grand ceremonial event, focus on enhancing maternal and child healthcare, expanding primary health facilities, strengthening hospital referral networks, and improving digital health access across the city.
The agreements include the construction of the Dagupan City Maternal and Children’s Hospital, a P200-million project funded by the DOH Health Facilities Enhancement Program. The hospital will provide comprehensive healthcare services for mothers, infants, and children. Another agreement involves the Phase 2 construction of the Malued Super Family Health Center, which will expand access to primary healthcare services and community-based medical care with P15 million in funding.
The City Government of Dagupan has also renewed its partnership with Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC), recognizing the hospital as Dagupan’s Apex Hospital partner and strengthening referral systems within the local health care provider network. Additionally, a telemedicine services agreement with R1MC will expand digital consultations and enable residents to access specialist medical advice more conveniently.
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco emphasized that the agreements represent a strategic investment in the region’s health infrastructure and service delivery. “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to bring quality healthcare closer to every family,” Sydiongco stated. Dagupan City Mayor added that the agreements mark a major step forward for the health and well-being of Dagupeño families, making quality healthcare services more accessible to mothers, children, and communities.
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