In a significant development for healthcare in Pangasinan, the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Super Health Center in Mangatarem took place on January 10, 2025. This PHP12-million project, located in Barangay Umangan, is set to enhance medical services for approximately 79,000 local residents. The facility, funded through the Department of Health’s Health Facilities Enhancement Program under the 2024 national budget, is expected to be completed within the year.
The Super Health Center is designed to be a state-of-the-art polyclinic, covering an area of 611 square meters. It will offer a wide array of medical services, including a pharmacy, clinical laboratory, dental clinic, ultrasound and electrocardiogram facilities, consultation areas, and rooms dedicated to X-ray, birthing, and minor surgery. This comprehensive setup aims to improve healthcare accessibility not only for Mangatarem residents but also for those from neighboring towns.
According to Esperanza Tinaza, the information officer for the Department of Public Works and Highways Ilocos Region, the center will play a crucial role in addressing primary health concerns, minor medical cases, and non-critical conditions. Paula Paz Sydiongco, the DOH Ilocos Region director, emphasized that the new center will bridge the gap in primary care and support the secondary and tertiary hospitals in the area in meeting further patient needs. With this addition, Mangatarem, which currently has two rural health units serving its population, will see a significant improvement in its healthcare infrastructure.