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ALCALA, Pangasinan — In a significant step toward improving health care accessibility in this town, a new Super Health Center (SHC) was officially opened in Barangay Poblacion on Tuesday.
The turnover ceremony was led by Sen. Bong Go, a staunch advocate for improved health care services across the country, and Alcala Mayor Jojo Callejo.
The event was also attended by local officials and health workers representing the town's 21 barangay (villages).
ENHANCING HEALTH CARE Sen. Bong Go (left) leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony during the inauguration of a Super Health Center in Alcala, Pangasinan, on March 18, 2025. PHOTO BY JANICE HIDALGO
The senator said the opening of the health facility marked a milestone in addressing the long-standing challenge of accessing district hospitals, especially in urgent situations.
He said the SHC aims to serve as a vital medical hub, providing essential health services and bridging the gap for residents who face difficulties in reaching the district hospital.
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In his speech, Go reiterated his commitment to public service and highlighted the importance of community-based health care centers.
"Getting sick is no joke, especially when short on money. That's why we're trying to bring medical services closer to people so they don't have to suffer anymore," said Go, an adopted son of Pangasinan.
He also echoed the concerns of former president Rodrigo Duterte regarding the health care situation in the country, assuring the public that he remains dedicated to continuing the work they started to uplift the lives of Filipinos, especially in rural and underserved areas.
"This Super Health Center is more than just a building — it's a symbol of our collective effort to bring quality health services to every Filipino," Go said. "I will not stop working until no Filipino is left behind when it comes to access to health care."
The turnover of the SHC stands as a testament to the government's commitment to health development and is seen as a welcome relief to residents who often face logistical and financial hurdles when seeking medical attention from distant facilities, he said.
Clarressa Cayabyab, a resident of Alcala, welcomed the new health facility.
"This Super Health Center is a very timely and much-needed project for our community. It brings health care closer to home and eases our worries when emergencies arise," she said.
Through the concerted efforts of Go, his fellow lawmakers, local government units and the Department of Health, under the leadership of Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, funding has been allocated for more than 700 SHCs nationwide, including 30 in Pangasinan.
