ARAYAT, Pampanga, Philippines — Gov. Lilia G. Pineda declared that the people of Arayat town may now enjoy improved hospital facilities and services with the recent inauguration of the Dr. Emigdio Cruz, Sr. Memorial District Hospital in Barangay Lacquios.

Upgraded at the cost of P9.7 million, the hospital has a 25-bed capacity and features a private room, a storeroom where supplies are safely kept, a motorpool/garage, and a dormitory for hospital personnel.

Pineda said efficient medical services for her constituents should include upgraded hospital buildings, modern equipment, very good hospital staff and medical specialists.

Mayor Luis Espino of Arayat lauded the governor for her continuing efforts in upgrading hospitals, among other infrastructure, in the province, to give people the high quality services that they need.

Dr. Benjamin Simbol, Jr., chief of hospital, cited the result of a report from the National Children’s Hospital (NCH) in Manila, stating that “there is a big decrease in the number of patients being referred to from the province.”

From among provinces in Luzon, Pampanga used to have the third biggest number of referrals of patients to the NCH. Now, the recent report said, it has dropped to sixth place, which Simbol explained, is “reflective of the improved ability of local hospitals to address the medical needs of the children-patients in the province.”

Simbol also requested the governor and mayors to enroll their constituents in the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation so that patients and the local hospitals may enjoy the benefits that would accrue from same.