The city government of San Carlos, in partnership with the San Carlos City Hospital, inaugurated the first government hospital wellness center in the Negros Island Region Feb. 21, marking a milestone in promoting accessible and holistic healthcare for the community.
The new facility features a patient and staff wellness center, pediatric playground, and therapeutic zen and meditation garden located at the back of the hospital, designed to support recovery, mental well-being, and a nurturing environment for both patients and healthcare workers.
Department of Health undersecretary, Dr. Mary Ann Palermo-Maestral, a practicing pediatrician, welcomed the inclusion of a pediatric playground, noting that such spaces help support children’s recovery and provide a calming environment that uplifts patients and families.
She commended the local government, headed by Mayor Renate Gustilo, hospital leadership, and staff for their commitment to accessible healthcare and improved health outcomes across the region.
San Carlos City Hospital chief, Dr. Renan Sanchez, reaffirmed the facility’s dedication to advancing health and wellness initiatives, stressing that the hospital will continue prioritizing patient welfare and the well-being of its personnel. He added that the strength and treasure of the city is the health of its people.
Gustilo pledged additional city funds for hospital operations and the procurement of more equipment for the city hospital. He also presented a 3D perspective of the proposed San Carlos City Medical Center.
He expressed hope that the national government, through the DOH, will allocate additional resources to realize the vision of quality, accessible, and universal healthcare, not only for San Carlos but also for neighboring towns and cities.
DOH-NIR assistant regional director Adrian Hort Ramos, meanwhile, said that the department has pushed for a P396 million allocation for San Carlos City Hospital for inclusion in the proposed 2027 General Appropriations Act.
This includes P16.7 million for the super health center (SHC) 1, P21.7 million for SHC 2, and P5 million for a primary care facility. Ramos said these appropriations will be subject to congressional deliberation and approval, and that he has been tasked to closely monitor the city’s proposals to ensure alignment with regional health priorities.
Provincial Health officer, Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan, also announced that the province will increase its nutrition program budget from P10 million to P30 million, with San Carlos City among the beneficiaries, the city said in a press release.
Vice Mayor Christopher Paul Carmona, on the other hand, noted that the LGU’s ongoing programs are made possible through the cooperation of city officials, and assured that the Sangguniang Panlungsod remains steadfast in supporting hospital programs and projects.
Councilor Philip Gerard Maisog, chairperson of the SP Committee on Health and Sanitation, thanked the officials and employees for their collective efforts in making the hospital wellness center possible for the benefit of San Carloseños and Negrenses.
Also present during the blessing of the facility were Vallehermoso Mayor Aloma Monica Serion, Vice Mayor Marianne Gustilo, councilors Gerardo Valmayor III, Joseph Mark Antonio, Arthur Batomalaque, and Jeffrey Hidalgo, Liga president Joselito Lopez, former councilor Wilmer Yap, representatives from the 1st District of Negros Occidental health offices, Provincial Health Office staff, and San Carlos City Hospital and Health Office workers, among others. ||
