In a significant boost to healthcare in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Ministry of Health (MOH-BARMM) has recently opened new rural health units (RHUs) and barangay health stations (BHS) across eight towns. These developments are part of the Special Geographic Area (SGA) initiative, which includes 63 villages spread across six municipalities in North Cotabato. The initiative aims to rectify the long-standing issue of inadequate health services, exacerbated by years of armed conflict in the region.
Dr. Kadil Sinolinding, the MOH Minister, emphasized that these modern health facilities are designed to reach even the most geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA). He assured that these facilities will be staffed by qualified health professionals to ensure effective service delivery. The newly established health units are located in the towns of Old Kaabakan, Pahamuddin, Kadayangan, Kapalawan, Malidegao, Nabalawag, Tugunan, and Ligawasan.
Over the last 10 months, a total of 44 RHUs and BHS have been constructed throughout the SGA, marking a significant step forward in improving healthcare accessibility and quality in these communities.