By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Manila city government is laying the groundwork for a major healthcare expansion program aimed at addressing the growing number of patients in the city’s district hospitals.
In an interview with members of the Manila City Hall Press Club, Manila Vice Mayor Chi Atienza said the local government is planning to establish several Super Health Centers across the city to help decongest public hospitals and improve access to medical services.
According to Atienza, the proposed facilities will be equipped with advanced diagnostic and medical equipment, enabling residents to receive a wider range of healthcare services without immediately seeking treatment at major hospitals.
The planned Super Health Centers are expected to provide services supported by equipment such as X-ray machines, MRI units, and other essential diagnostic tools needed by patients.
The vice mayor said the initiative is designed to reduce overcrowding in district hospitals while bringing quality healthcare services closer to communities.
Despite the city’s commitment to the project, Atienza appealed for public understanding, stressing that the proposal must undergo thorough evaluation before implementation.
He explained that one of the key considerations involves the creation of plantilla positions and ensuring sufficient funding for healthcare personnel who will operate the facilities.
“We have a good plan, but we do not want to rush its implementation,” Atienza said. “We must ensure that the city can sustain the salaries and benefits of the healthcare workers who will be assigned to these centers.”
The vice mayor warned that completing the facilities without adequate staffing funds could delay their opening and limit their effectiveness.
He noted that while construction may be completed, operations could be postponed if resources are insufficient to hire and retain qualified healthcare professionals.
Atienza assured residents that he and Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso are actively exploring ways to bring the project to fruition as soon as possible.
He said the city leadership remains committed to strengthening Manila’s healthcare system and ensuring that residents receive better access to medical services through sustainable and well-planned healthcare infrastructure.
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