MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--City Mayor Majul Gandamra reaffirmed in his State of the City's Address (SOCA) that the local government unit (LGU) gives significance to the health of its residents. 

The local chief executive also cited the efforts of the LGU in the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Among these, is the conversion of the Siyapen Center, the first community-based drug rehabilitation center which was funded by the Ayala Foundation, into a quarantine and treatment facility for residents affected by COVID-19. 

At the barangay level, the City Health Office (CHO) also reactivated the Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERT) to respond to COVID-19 matters.

Gandamra said additional quarantine facilities are currently being built in Siyapen center to augment the existing facility.

The city government has also intensified the vaccination rollout. As of August 26, CHO has administered 18,606 doses of COVID-19 vaccines to health workers, senior citizens, and persons with comorbidities. Of this, 9,283 residents are already fully vaccinated while 9,323 are set to receive their second doses.

Gandamra further lauded the health frontliners for their remarkable acts of service to the people. He also thanked the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines for supporting the implementation of the rules imposed to control the spread of the disease.

"We would like to extend our gratitude to the security forces, PNP, and AFP for helping us in implementing the various rules and regulations of both city and provincial task force," he said.

Gandamra also highlighted that despite their focus on the pandemic, the LGU also makes sure that basic health services are delivered to the residents. 

A dental and medical mission was recently held in line with the 81st Charter Day celebration of the City. (LELA/PIA ​Lanao del Sur​)