(Photo courtesy of Taguig PIO)

QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- Two health centers in Taguig City are now licensed to operate as primary care facilities (PCFs), the local government announced.

The Calzada Health Center and Hagonoy Health Center are the first licensed centers in Metro Manila to operate as PCFs.

Mayor Lani Cayetano said the two health centers will operate as PCFs until December 31, 2024 as granted by the Department of Health.

“We believe that in order to adapt to the rapidly changing society, we must ensure the health of our community. Health is essential for a society to function; thus, we will continue to create effective and inclusive health programs for our citizens in Taguig City," she said.

According to the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act or Republic Act 11223, the DOH is responsible for granting licenses for stand-alone facilities that provide primary care services.

"Per Administrative Order No. 2020 – 0047, the PFC licensing is important to fulfill the UHC Act’s goal to ensure that every Filipino has access to affordable, safe and highest quality primary care services and health benefits," Cayetano said.

The order is applicable to all government and private PCFs, but not to the outpatient departments of hospitals and infirmaries that deliver primary care services. (PIA-NCR)