Measure filed to recognize CCMC temporary operation

CEBU, Philippines - To renew its permit, the chairman of the Cebu City council committee on health submitted a proposal recognizing the operation of the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) at the Bureau of Fire Protection-7 building.

Councilor Lea Japson said that they need the measure in order for the temporary hospital to continue operation next year.

“The council through a resolution shall recognize the operation of  CCMC being transferred and temporarily operating at the BFP building to renew the business permit,” Japson said.

She said they have to renew the permit at the Department of  Health before the year ends since it would expire in January.

On November 6, the Hospital Board passed a resolution requesting the council to pass a measure “for the exigency of service to the Cebuano constituents.”

“The Cebu City Medical Center Board through the Hospital Board Resolution No. 001-2013 has requested the city council to pass a resolution to temporarily operate a health facility in a new location at BFP compound under CCMC,” the resolution reads.

The CCMC building was declared unsafe after the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu and Bohol last month.

Councilor Hans Abella agreed to approve Japson’s measure.

However, Councilor Nida Cabrera opposed it, saying “it would be best to refer the measure to the committee on laws.”

Japson then agreed and referred the measure to the committee on laws.

Meanwhile, the council commended VECO, MCWD and communication companies for their immediate response following the onslaught of super typhoon Yolanda.

Councilor Sisinio Andales, who authored the resolution, said the utility companies made every effort to restore power, water and communication.

“We commended VECO, MCWD, PLDT, Smart, Sun, Bayantel and Globe in the timely restoration of  power, water, communication and network connection, respectively, in generally affected areas of Cebu city,” the council said. — (FREEMAN)