City to spend about P10 million for healthcare

Mayor Tomas Osmeña has recently approved the release of P3,823,750 for the purchase of mist blowers, protective gears, anti-dengue larvicidal solution, spraying and impregnation supplies requested by city health officer Fe Cabugao.

Cabugao said they would need to replenish anti-dengue chemicals before they run out of supply. The additional mist blowers and protective gears would be needed for a more intensified campaign against dengue in the city, Cabugao said. At least 42 residents here succumbed to dengue last year.

The city will also spend P225,000 for information technology equipment to be used by personnel of the City Surveillance and Statistics Unit in disseminating information on how to counter the spread of dengue.

 The CCSSU takes charge disseminating information on how diseases can be prevented, the proper management of cases, and documentation of different health services.

Aside from the budget dengue-fighting equipment, Osmeña also granted Cabugao’s request to purchase two desktop computers and printers, scanner and copying machine, a laptop computer, an LCD projector, and a digital camera.

Osmeña agreed to deduct the amount from the city’s calamity fund after the City Council declared the city under a state of calamity owing the rising number of dengue cases.

Records show that from January to March this year, 300 residents in the city ended in the hospital for dengue, six of which succumbed to the ailment.

“If only every household of this city would be vigilant to eliminate breeding sites and adult mosquitoes in their homes, we could, through joined efforts, be able to achieve a dengue-free community,” said Durinda Macasocol, assistant chief of the City Epidemiology Statistics and Surveillance Unit.

Meanwhile, Osmeña granted the request of Talamban barangay captain Alvin Arcilla to spend P5,440,000 to renovate the barangay’s health center because it is reportedly serving at least 80 patients everyday. – Rene U. Borromeo/JMO