SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez today hailed the signing of an agreement that would pave the way for the establishment of the first College of Medicine in Caraga region, saying this manifests the government’s commitment to advancing medical education and healthcare.
Romualdez, leader of the 311-member House of Representatives, was among the government officials who witnessed the historic signing of the MOA between the Caraga State University (CSU) and Davao Regional Medical Center.
“This Memorandum of Agreement is more than a document; it’s a promise—a promise to our people that we are dedicated to advancing medical education and healthcare services in our region,” the Speaker said in his message during the event held at Romualdez Hall of the House of Representatives.
He vowed the support of the House of Representatives for the initiative by allocating the required funding.
“In this noble endeavor, the role of the House of Representatives is crucial. It is our responsibility to ensure that this pioneering project is endowed with the appropriate resources and support,” Romualdez said.
“Our commitment is to advocate and secure the requisite budget, ensuring that this vision is not hindered by financial constraints and can achieve its full potential to benefit our society,” he added.
Signatories to the MOA were CSU President Dr. Rolyn Daguil, Davao Regional Medical Center Chief Dr. Bryan Dalid, and Agusan Del Norte 1st District Rep. Jose “Joboy” Aquino II.
Other officials who witnessed the event include Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Antonio Lagdameo, Jr., Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, and Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales, Jr.
Romualdez pointed out that with the establishment of the College of Medicine in the Caraga region, the stakeholders are forging a future where medical innovation and top-notch healthcare are accessible, and communities can flourish in health and education.
“I feel deeply privileged to be part of this groundbreaking initiative, and I look forward to seeing the waves of positive change it will bring to our region,” Romualdez said.
Under the MOA CSU and DRMC will collaborate in mentoring the medical students at CSU for a period of five years.
CSU will establish the College of Medicine and intends to offer the Doctor of Medicine program to fill the gap in the shortage of physicians not only in the region of Caraga but also in the country.
CSU shall be responsible for the curriculum and instruction of its Doctor of Medicine program while the DRMC will serve as the base training hospital to provide medical and clinical training for the medical students.
At present, the Caraga region has no tertiary training hospital, hence the need to tap DRMC, the nearest training hospital located in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
