THE death of a nine-year old infant for alleged failure of Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center (GCGMMC), a DoH-run hospital, to give medical attention for unknown ailment has sparked an investigation by the provincial board chaired by Vice-Gov. Tita V. Baja.
The heartbreaking story of the nine-year-old, who was born May 31, 2024, whose life was cut short on March 6, 2025 after the hospital allegedly did not admit her for three times. Now, her parents are heart-broken and could not accept the devastating loss to their loved one.
Upon learning of the tragedy, Provincial Board Member Atty. Jamie Villamor hastened to say, “I am currently drafting a resolution calling for formal investigation in aid of legislation and endorsing to the SP Committee on Health.”
“So we can look into the whole system, not just this one incident. I really feel the pain, isip usa ka inahan. I feel the disappointment, isip usa ka citizen,” she added.
The said hospital has issued a public statement that intends to conduct its own investigation.
“The death of any child is a tragedy, and we are committed to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding this loss. Our priority is to determine the facts of what occurred and to learn from this experience to prevent similar incidents in the future. We are undertaking a comprehensive review of all relevant medical records, procedures, and interactions with the family.”
The hospital added that, “We understand the public’s need for answers, and we want to assure everyone that we will release the findings of our investigation in a timely and appropriate manner. Transparency and accountability are paramount to us.”
The hospital likewise expressed its sympathy to the family. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving family during this difficult time. We understand the mother’s profound distress and the concerns raised in her public post.”
In her long social media post, the mother (name withheld) poured her disappointment over what happened to her daughter.
She said that the hospital did not admit her daughter for three times, in March 2, 3 and 4, 2025, despite their plea, but only to be told to continue giving the child, orisol and other medicines.
On the fourth visit, the child has spewed blood. Only then the hospital admitted and attended to her, the mother said. But then it was too late as the child died shortly.
“Kay kung gitugot pa nila ang akong hangyo nga e admit ang akong anak pag martes matabang pa unta Ning akong anak ug dili unta ni mamatay.. bisan sa ikatulo namong pagbalik nihangyo ko nga e admit Kay galuya, dili na mo totoy ug nangluspad na Ang akong anak pero Wala Sila nag hatag ug aksyon gipahulat pami ug TaaS nga Oras.”
(If only the hospital admitted her for the second visit, she could have survived. But there was no action of the hospital and they let us waited for hours). (rvo)
