In his State of the City Address held on Wednesday, August 28, Calamba City Mayor Roseller H. Rizal prioritized health issues at the top of his agenda.
In his report to the city, he outlined the improvements and accomplishments of his administration in the field of healthcare.
“We understand that one of our citizens’ essential needs is related to health. What measures have we taken to ensure that we meet the needs for a healthy life and community?” Rizal stated.
The steps taken by the Rizal administration include increasing the number of health workers. Since he assumed office as Mayor, the number of medical officers has grown from ten to seventeen, along with 53 nurses, 64 midwives throughout the city, in addition to dentists, medical technologists, and nutritionists.
There are now 756 Barangay Health Workers and 83 Barangay Nutrition Scholars who assist, particularly in monitoring health conditions in remote barangays.
“Our health personnel work together to provide basic health services to our residents. This is facilitated through the main health center in Barangay 7, the CUBA Urban Health Center, the Punta Health Center, Barangay Canlubang, and various other centers across our barangays.”
The city’s Maternal Child Health Education Program has also been successful, offering 24/7 services at birthing facilities. In 2023, there were 1,012 newborns, and following their birth, comprehensive immunization programs were implemented to ensure these children receive necessary protection against various diseases.
These programs have resulted in the city receiving a national nutrition award from the National Nutrition Council last year.
There is also a continued effort to provide basic laboratory services. Doctors are available for daily check-ups in the barangays, a commitment made by the mayor on his first day in office. The promise was to ensure that every barangay has access to doctors, nurses, and midwives.
