Gov. Sol Aragones pushes timely hazard pay and stronger healthcare support amid ₱57M PhilHealth dispute

Laguna Governor Sol Aragones is taking decisive steps to address systemic issues in the province’s healthcare system, placing the welfare of frontline medical workers at the forefront of her administration’s agenda.

During an inspection of nine district hospitals, Aragones uncovered a staggering ₱57 million in denied PhilHealth claims. In response, she issued a firm directive: ensure hazard pay for health workers is released on time.

“Maging on time ang hazard pay ng health practitioners at health workers,” the governor emphasized, underscoring her commitment to prioritizing healthcare professionals who continue to serve despite mounting challenges.

Aragones summoned PhilHealth administrators from the affected hospitals to address the issue and devise solutions. “Solusyon ang kailangan, hindi na magsisihan,” she said, calling for accountability paired with cooperation, rather than blame, to resolve the healthcare backlog.

Her comprehensive reform plan includes the appointment of full-time hospital administrators in each district facility, relocating the flood-prone Luisiana District Hospital, expanding hospital infrastructure to reduce overcrowding, and enabling patients to use guarantee letters for essential services like laboratory tests in private hospitals.

To specifically tackle delays in PhilHealth reimbursements, Aragones proposed the formation of a Technical Working Group (TWG) to monitor the progress of claims and member concerns, with weekly reporting to ensure transparency and prompt action.

The governor is also set to visit the Senate on July 15 to seek additional funding and legislative support. “May magagawa tayo kung magtutulungan. May pondo sa PhilHealth, at puwede tayong lumapit sa private sector,” Aragones said, signaling a multi-sectoral approach to addressing the healthcare crisis.

During her hospital rounds, she engaged directly with staff, listening to their needs and pledging action. “Sabihin ninyo kung ano ang kulang at ano ang maitutulong ko sa inyo,” she told them, reinforcing her promise of hands-on leadership.

Aragones painted a hopeful vision for public hospitals: “Pangarap ko na dumating ang araw sa mga ospital na hindi na sasama ang loob ng mga pasyente dahil walang swero,” she said — a future where healthcare delivery is not just promised, but reliably fulfilled.

With a firm stance on timely support, infrastructure development, and better coordination with agencies like PhilHealth, Governor Sol Aragones is proving that her administration’s motto, “Gobyernong May Solusyon,” is more than just a slogan — it’s a promise of effective and compassionate governance.