AMBaG Allocates P55 Million to Seven BARMM Public Hospitals for Medical Aid
Seven public hospitals across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao received a combined P55 million in financial assistance this October to sustain healthcare services and help indigent patients manage hospitalization costs.
The fund distributions, executed between October 1 and October 22, are part of the Ayudang Medikal mula sa Bangsamoro Government initiative. The program operates service desks within partner facilities to provide financial aid and support zero-balance billing services for qualified beneficiaries.
Mohd Asnin Pendatun, the program head and Cabinet Secretary for the Bangsamoro Government, emphasized that the financial transfer guarantees the ongoing operation of AMBaG across partner hospitals. “AMBaG is truly BARMM. It is a meaningful expression of Moral Governance that brings healthcare closer to our people and eases the burden on Bangsamoro families,” Pendatun said.
The funding schedule distributed varying amounts to regional, provincial, and district hospitals:
- Datu Odin Sinsuat District Hospital: Received P10 million on October 1.
- Balindong District Hospital: Received P5 million on October 7.
- Unayan District Hospital: Received P5 million on October 7.
- Iranun Provincial Hospital: Received P15 million on October 8.
- Basilan Medical Center: Received P3 million on October 21.
- Lamitan District Hospital: Received P15 million on October 21.
- Siasi District Hospital: Received P2 million on October 22.
Since its inception, the medical aid initiative has assisted 363,953 beneficiaries. Program statistics show that 86% of patients who utilize the service desk leave their respective hospital stays with zero balances.
Program Evolution from Special Initiative to Regional Fixture
Established under Executive Order No. 17 in 2019, the program originally operated as a special initiative managed directly by the Office of the Chief Minister.
Reflecting on the trajectory of the program, Pendatun noted its development as the region’s constituents welcome the regular Bangsamoro Government. The assistance is specifically tailored to vulnerable populations, covering indigent patients, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, orphans, and other disadvantaged individuals.
