22/06/2025
The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament held a deliberation on BTA Bill No. 350, entitled “An Act Upgrading the Dr. Serapio B. Montaner Jr., Al Haj Memorial Hospital (DSBMMH) from 25 to 100 Bed Capacity (Level II), Appropriating Funds Therefor and for Other Purposes.”
The proposed measure seeks to enhance the capacity and classification of DSBMMH, located in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, from a 25-bed primary hospital to a 100-bed Level II facility. This significant legislative initiative aims to respond to the growing healthcare needs of the province and surrounding areas, ensuring more accessible, higher-quality medical services for the Bangsamoro constituents. The bill is principally authored by Members of Parliament (MPs) Dr. Kadil M. Sinolinding Jr., Atty. Pangalian M. Balindong, Dr. Hashemi N. Dilangalen, Prof. Eddie M. Alih, Atty. Rasol Y. Mitmug Jr., Atty. Paisalin Tago, Atty. Ishak V. Mastura, and Atty. Nabil A. Tan. It is also co-authored by MPs Ali Montaha D. Babao, Khalid M. Hadji Abdullah, Said M. Sheik, Amroussi A. Macatanong, Marjanie S. Macasalong, Abdullah G. Macapaar, Atty. Mosber E. Alauddin, Albakil D. Jikiri, Nurredha I. Misuari, Mohammad Kelie U. Antao, Froilyn T. Mendoza, Diamila D. Ramos, Atty. Abdulwahab M. Pak, and Atty. Jose I. Lorena.
The deliberation was conducted under the Committee on Health, chaired by MP Dr. Ibrahim P. Ibay (Vice Chairperson), with active participation from members MP Akmad I. Abas, MP Atty. Suharto M. Ambolodto, MP Atty Alirakim T. Munder, MP Ali O. Salik, and MP Atty. Sittie Fahanie S. Uy-Oyod. Ex-officio members present during the session included were MP Atty. Ishak V. Mastura, MP Engr. Baintan A. Ampatuan, and Member of the Parliament the very supportive MP Khalid M. Hadji Abdullah, reflecting the wide support for this healthcare development initiative.
Also in attendance were Dr. Hanipha Madale-Montañer, Chief of Hospital, and Dr. Romeo G. Montañer, Executive Consultant, who represented the hospital’s leadership and expressed their commitment to support the bill and the much-needed upgrade of the facility. Their presence and testimonies provided insights and ground-level perspectives that strengthened the case for institutional enhancement.
During the committee deliberation, the bill was officially approved, marking a significant milestone in the legislative process. The next step will be a joint session with the Committee on Finance, Budget and Management, where discussions will focus on the financial appropriations necessary to implement the proposed upgrade.
This upcoming joint session is expected to deliberate on the allocation of resources to support infrastructure, equipment, personnel, and operational needs of the hospital as it transitions into a Level II facility. The approval of the bill within the Committee on Health is a promising advancement toward realizing the long-standing aspiration to improve healthcare access and delivery in Lanao del Sur and the Bangsamoro region at large.
Alhamdulillah!!!