• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The completion of the hemodialysis center at Ignacio L. Arroyo Memorial District Hospital in Isabela, Negros Occidental, worth P20.3-million, will “significantly enhance healthcare services in the 5th District and beyond,” the Department of Public Works and Highways in Western Visayas said April 24.
The three-storey building with a roof deck offers efficient and accessible hemodialysis treatments for patients, DPWH6 director Sanny Boy Oropel said in a statement.
The facility will have an initial 12 beds for hemodialysis patients, the Capitol said during the groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 28, 2021, led by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, then 5th District Rep. Ma. Lourdes Arroyo, and Isabela Mayor Irene Montilla, among others.
Montilla had said that the center will cater not only to Isabelenos but to the whole 5th District of the province.
Oropel, meanwhile, said that aside from the hemodialysis center, several multi-purpose buildings were also completed by the DPWH Negros Occidental 2nd District Engineering Office.
In Barangay Guintubhan, Isabela, a new one-storey barangay hall, worth P4.9-million, will provide a modern space for local governance and community service.
In Barangay Libacao, Himamaylan, a P5.4-million covered court, spanning 306 square meters, has been constructed, featuring cladding concrete flooring and a canopy.
A covered court was also built in Barangay Bato, Hinigaran, worth P5.4 million, and in Barangay Santol, Binalbagan, with a budget of P5.6-million.
These covered courts serve as venues for fiestas, medical missions, youth sports competitions, school programs, and even evacuation shelters during emergencies, the DPWH said.
“These projects reflect our commitment to community development and public service. From fostering togetherness in barangays to improving healthcare access, we aim to uplift lives across Negros Occidental,” Oropel stressed. | CGC
