TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Northern Samar is intensifying efforts to secure full licensing of all its Primary Care Facilities (PCFs), moving closer to becoming the first province in Eastern Visayas to achieve 100 percent compliance with national health standards.
Data presented by the Provincial Health Office (PHO) showed that 19 out of 24 PCFs across the province are now licensed, representing 79 percent accreditation. The remaining five facilities are currently completing documentary and technical requirements, with their respective Rural Health Units (RHUs) finalizing compliance with standards set by the Department of Health (DOH).
The update was reported during the Annual LGU Health Scoreboard Orientation held from February 26 to 27, 2026, at Sumuroy Hall inside the provincial capitol. The activity gathered RHU representatives and local officials to assess compliance with the Seal of Good Local Governance and review progress on priority health programs.
Provincial officials said the push for full licensing underscores their commitment to strengthening the primary healthcare system, ensuring that health facilities meet quality, safety, and service delivery standards mandated by the DOH and supported by PhilHealth.
Among the initiatives highlighted during the orientation was the DOH’s PuroKalusugan Program, which aims to improve access to high-quality, community-centered primary healthcare services, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
Governor Harris Ongchuan reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to building a responsive and well-coordinated healthcare system that benefits all Nortehanons.
The initiative is spearheaded by the PHO in partnership with the DOH, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), PhilHealth, and other partner agencies.
With the remaining facilities now in the final stages of compliance, provincial officials expressed confidence that Northern Samar will soon achieve full licensing of all its Primary Care Facilities—strengthening frontline health services and improving access to essential medical care across the province.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
