MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The Department of Health (DOH) is optimistic that the city has already welcomed a boost in its healthcare system that will strengthen the delivery of its health operations.

Such was made possible with the unveiling of the new city health unit, June 7, located within the City Hall compound, a strategic location deemed accessible to needy constituents.

With support from the Asian Development Bank through the urban climate change resilience trust fund, the two-story facility is furnished with vital equipment housed in its laboratory, pharmacy, dental, family planning and prenatal, delivery, ward or labor, and sterilization rooms.

Moreover, the health facility is also equipped with conference and breastfeeding rooms, executive offices, prayer rooms, nurses’ quarters, and a record section.

DOH Undersecretary Dr. Abdullah Dumama conveyed that the wait is already over for the constituents as, after three years, the new city health unit has already risen.

He said that along the way of constructing this facility, there have been a lot of problems they have been able to resolve, among which were human-induced and natural disasters, including COVID-19.

Dumama was happy that these struggles did not successfully halt their vision of completing the building since they inspired them to work hard.

As such, he congratulated everyone who contributed to the completion of the infrastructure, for they sincerely granted the delivery of healthcare services that the constituents truly deserved.

Dumama also called on the LGU here to sustain this project so that it might be enjoyed for a longer time.

"I am optimistic that this facility will be able to serve the people in the area appropriately and responsibly. I am pretty sure that this will be operated with utmost care. Alagaan natin itong ating facility para sa kinabukasan ng generations na darating (Let us take care of this facility for the future of the generations to come)," he said.

Dumama assured that they would keep on connecting with the City Health Office here to maintain their relationship and assist in matters that would need their help.

Meanwhile, DOH-10 Regional Director Dr. Jose Llacuna Jr. underscored that the newly built city health unit has been part of their engagement with all stakeholders from various sectors as they strive to attain their prime goal of delivering quality health services, especially to marginalized communities.

"I am very sure that if we do this together, we shall achieve the mission and objectives of the departments, for if we are united, we can do more and even more. We can achieve better," he said. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)