New mother and child unit eyed for IPH

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Plans for a proposed Mother and Child Unit at the Iloilo Provincial Hospital (IPH) in Pototan advanced after national agencies and provincial officials met Jan. 8 to align construction plans and ensure compliance with health standards.

The coordination meeting brought together officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of Health (DOH), and various offices of the Iloilo provincial government to address technical concerns involving design, layout, and required medical amenities.

The discussion was led by Iloilo 3rd District Rep. Lorenz Defensor, with DPWH Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Al Fruto, and DOH Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Ma. Sophia Pulmones attending, along with provincial officials.

The proposed facility will be built on land already secured by the provincial government as part of the IPH’s expansion program.

Officials said the location allows adequate space for specialized services focused on maternal, neonatal, and pediatric care.

“I want to build this so women and children will have better access to healthcare. We want to further improve healthcare in all districts of the province,” Defensor said.

Once completed, the Mother and Child Unit is expected to enhance the hospital’s capacity to provide safer and more specialized care for mothers, infants, and children.

Provincial officials said the project will also help reduce patient referrals to medical centers outside Iloilo.

The facility is targeted for completion in 2028, subject to the completion of detailed design, regulatory approvals, and construction requirements.