Pioneering Primary Care in Catbalogan, Samar
Stories | by Krizzia Esperanza
Catbalogan, home to 113,879 residents, has set up the first Primary Care Facility (PCF) in Samar—bringing essential health services closer to the people. On December 12, 2024, Catbalogan’s new PCF was officially recognized.
A key aspect of this transformation is Catbalogan’s involvement with the Zuellig Family Foundation and UNFPA partnership under the Joint Programme on Accelerating the Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy (JPARAP) in 2023. Part of the support provided to local governments is technical assistance and guidance in reaching targets outlined in their local health roadmap, including accreditation and licensing to ensure that all 10 sites in the province meet the required health standards to become fully licensed PCFs.
Catbalogan’s efforts are now inspiring other local governments to follow suit, pushing for a province-wide Health Care Providers Network (HCPN). This network is crucial in making Universal Health Care a reality for Samar’s residents.
Catbalogan is leading by example, showing that investing in healthcare is a necessity. As Mayor Dexter Uy’s slogan says, “Derecho Uswag”—sustained progress is the way forward.
Related articles:
- Expanded Youth Leadership and Governance Program (EYLGP): Tackling Adolescent Pregnancy in Southern Leyte and Samar
- Municipal Expanded Youth Leadership and Governance Program: Strengthening Local Governance for Adolescent Health in Samar
- A Year of Progress: Reducing Adolescent Pregnancy in Southern Leyte and Samar
