By Matthew Go
Three mayors from northern Romblon have expressed support for converting the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Hospital (OMPH) into a regional hospital under the Department of Health (DOH), citing benefits for residents across the Mimaropa region.
Concepcion Mayor Nicon Fameronag, along with the mayors of Banton and Corcuera, emphasized the practicality of the conversion for northern Romblon residents. The OMPH, currently managed by the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro, is considered more accessible for residents of northern Romblon towns due to its proximity.
The provincial government of Oriental Mindoro has proposed an alternative plan to construct a new DOH-operated regional hospital at OMPH’s former site in Barangay Ilaya. This project is estimated to cost PHP 1 billion and would take up to five years to complete.
Oriental Mindoro 1st District Rep. Arnan Panaligan, who authored House Bill No. 2116 advocating for the hospital’s conversion, confirmed that the measure has passed the House Committee on Health. However, disagreements over the counterproposal have caused delays as local leaders and stakeholders continue to evaluate the most effective solution for improving healthcare in the Mimaropa region.