HUNGDUAN, Ifugao – This province seems to be the only area in the region without a fully functional hospital despite its rehabilitation that started in 2011, an official of an indigenous peoples organization said.
“This is a challenge to Ifugao leaders. Divisive politics must step aside for the meantime. I also ask that the people of our great province rally behind our leaders who cannot solve Ifugao’s problems all by themselves. They need our support and cooperation,” said Bagong Lakas ng Indigenous founder, Timmy Mondiguing.
“The priority of every local government unit is the safety and security of its residents and visitors especially now that we are all facing a deadly pandemic that has killed thousands globally,” Mondiguing said.
He said before the province opens its borders, Ifugao officials must assure residents and visitors that it has a well-equipped and well-prepared health system.
“The province needs a specific quarantine place, designated Covid center, including the purchase of additional ventilators, personal protective equipment, face masks and shields, testing kits, thermo scanners, gloves, medicines, hiring of contact tracers and health workers equipped with training,” he said.
He said a hospital with a Covid laboratory will be a great accomplishment instead of sending samples to the National Capital Region or Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center where results come out in 10 to 14 days.
He is hopeful that the DILG assistance together with the local government units’ 20 percent development fund be used to improve Ifugao’s health system.
“This pandemic is a wakeup call for all of us especially our beloved province’s leaders,” Mondiguing said. – Press release
