ILOILO CITY — The Iloilo City Government formalized partnerships with 10 hospitals on June 1, 2026, strengthening its Medical Assistance Program for indigent and financially challenged residents. Mayor Raisa Treñas led the MOA signing at the City Hall Penthouse. The agreement ensures that patients endorsed through the Atipan Center can receive up to ₱50,000 in assistance for hospitalization, diagnostics, laboratory services, medicines, and medical supplies.
The partnership brings together the city's major public and private healthcare institutions. Signatories included Iloilo Mission Hospital, Asia Pacific Medical Center, St. Paul's Hospital Iloilo, Iloilo Doctors' Hospital, Medicus Medical Center, Healthway Qualimed Hospital Iloilo, The Medical City Iloilo, Metro Iloilo Hospital and Medical Center, West Visayas State University Medical Center, and Western Visayas Medical Center. Their leaders personally attended the signing ceremony.
Haplos: A Caring Touch for the Community
Alongside the MOA signing, the city government launched Haplos, an acronym for "Health Assistance sa Pumuluyo, Laboratory kag Ospital Serbis." The program name reflects the Ilonggo brand of a caring touch—warm, compassionate, and people‑centered. It symbolizes the city's commitment to reaching out to vulnerable sectors.
City Health Officer Dr. Mary Ann Poli‑Diaz and Department Head II Jonas Antonio Bellosillo witnessed the signing. Haplos ensures that healthcare remains accessible, inclusive, and responsive to those who need it most. The program consolidates the city's various medical assistance efforts under a single, recognizable banner.
A Network of Care Across the City
The 10 hospitals represent a comprehensive healthcare network spanning public and private institutions. Their participation ensures that patients can access care at facilities closest to their homes. The Atipan Center serves as the gateway, evaluating and endorsing qualified patients for the program.
Mayor Treñas emphasized that the agreement guarantees that no Ilonggo is denied medical care due to financial constraints. The partnerships build on the city's broader health infrastructure investments, including free dialysis centers and an upcoming Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostic Center. The Haplos program extends the city's commitment to health as a right rather than a privilege.
