23/07/2025
CASAMA Interlocal Health Zone Meeting Forges Stronger Collaboration for Health Advancement
The CASAMA (Municipalities of Cagwait, San Agustin, and Marihatag) Local Health Area Development Zone (LAHDZ) Board Meeting, held on July 22, 2025, in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, proved highly successful in strengthening collaboration among key healthcare stakeholders. The meeting served as a crucial forum for addressing critical issues and fostering a unified approach to enhancing health services within the area
A key outcome of the meeting was the election and Hon. Benjamin T. Fazon Jr., RCE, Municipal Mayor of Marihatag, is now the new Chairman of the Board. This decision reflects the established protocol of appointing the mayor of the municipality hosting the hospital to this leadership role. The meeting also saw the participation of the Provincial Vice Governor, who emphasized the importance of continued Local Government Unit (LGU) support for the hospital's operations and development. Further strengthening the LAHDZ's capacity, Mr. Ralph Abraham Villaganes, RN, was introduced as the newly appointed Development Management Officer IV from the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga.
The meeting agenda included a comprehensive presentations providing key updates on various aspects of the LAHDZ's operations. Dr. Edmund L. Lamela, Chief of Hospital I, presented a detailed statistical report and outlined ongoing hospital initiatives and updates. Mr. Andy C. Dillote, Hospital Administrator, provided a financial update for LAHDZ III, while Ms. Ergen P. Bucong, RSW, Social Welfare Officer II, presented an update on the utilization of the MAIFIP Fund.
The collaborative discussions extended beyond these formal presentations, encompassing a range of crucial issues and solidifying the coordinated efforts among partner LGUs. The meeting's success underscores the commitment of all participants to improving healthcare access and quality within the CASAMA Area. This strengthened partnership promises significant advancements in the delivery of healthcare services to the communities.