Iligan City, known for its rich natural resources and industrial potential, is at a pivotal moment in its legislative journey. Representative Celso G. Regencia has emerged as a key figure advocating for crucial reforms that address pressing issues in public safety and healthcare. His recent bills—aimed at restructuring the Philippine National Police (PNP) and establishing a district hospital in Iligan City—have begun to gain traction in the Senate, signaling a hopeful future for the city’s governance and services.

Restructuring the Philippine National Police: House Bill 8327

The Philippine National Police has long faced scrutiny regarding its effectiveness and efficiency in maintaining peace and order across the archipelago. Recognizing these challenges, Regencia introduced House Bill 8327, an ambitious initiative aimed at restructuring the PNP to foster greater accountability and enhance operational effectiveness.

Objectives of the Bill

The primary objectives of HB 8327 are to:

1. Promote Accountability: By redefining the organizational structure, the bill aims to establish clear lines of accountability within the police force. This is crucial in rebuilding public trust and ensuring that officers are held responsible for their actions.
2. Enhance Training and Resources: Regencia emphasizes the need for improved training programs and resources to equip police officers with the necessary skills and tools to perform their duties effectively.
3. Decentralization of Operations: The bill proposes a more localized approach to policing, allowing regional offices to operate with greater autonomy while still adhering to national standards. This decentralization is expected to improve response times and community relations.
4. Integration of Technology: As crime evolves, so too must law enforcement strategies. The bill advocates for the incorporation of advanced technology in policing, including digital reporting systems and data analysis tools, to improve crime detection and prevention.

Senate Support and Legislative Progress

Since passing the third reading in the Lower House, HB 8327 has captured the attention of several senators who recognize the urgency of police reform in the Philippines. Regencia’s visit to the Senate on September 12, 2023, allowed him to present the bill directly to lawmakers, garnering interest and support from a majority of them.

The Senate’s scrutiny of the bill reflects a growing consensus that the current structure of the PNP needs an overhaul to address systemic issues that have hampered its effectiveness. Regencia’s optimism regarding the bill’s potential passage is fueled by this newfound support, which he believes is essential for fostering peace and order in communities across the nation.

Establishing the Iligan City District Hospital: House Bill 7174

In addition to public safety reforms, Regencia is also focused on improving healthcare access in Iligan City. His House Bill 7174 aims to establish a government-run district hospital, known as the Iligan City District Hospital, to address the critical healthcare needs of the city’s residents.

The Need for a District Hospital

Iligan City, with a population of over 340,000 as of the 2015 Census, faces significant healthcare challenges. Currently, the city is served by seven hospitals, but only one—Gregorio T. Lluch Memorial Hospital—is managed by the local government. Unfortunately, this facility is inadequately equipped to handle the growing medical demands of the community.

The key reasons for establishing a district hospital include:

1. Increasing Population: With a growing population, the demand for medical services has surged. A dedicated district hospital would alleviate the pressure on existing healthcare facilities and provide much-needed services.
2. Expanded Medical Services: The district hospital would offer a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, outpatient services, and specialized treatments, thereby enhancing overall health outcomes for residents.
3. Accessibility: Many residents face barriers in accessing healthcare due to the distance and capacity limitations of existing hospitals. A well-equipped district hospital would reduce these barriers, making healthcare more accessible to all.

Legislative Journey and Support

Co-authored with former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, HB 7174 has received positive feedback from senators who appreciate the push to enhance the healthcare system in Iligan City. Regencia’s efforts have been met with enthusiasm, as lawmakers understand the importance of quality healthcare in improving the quality of life for constituents.

The proposed hospital is expected to not only serve Iligan City but also cater to the healthcare needs of nearby areas in Lanao del Norte, further broadening its impact. As the bill moves through the legislative process, Regencia remains hopeful that it will soon become law, thus fulfilling a long-standing need in the community.

Public-Private Partnership Act: House Bill 6527

To ensure that healthcare projects like the proposed district hospital are implemented effectively, Regencia has also championed House Bill 6527, known as the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act. This bill was approved by the House of Representatives in December 2022 and has been certified urgent by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., highlighting its significance in the government’s infrastructure agenda.

Purpose of the PPP Act

The PPP Act aims to facilitate collaboration between the government and private sector entities to improve public services and infrastructure. Key features of the bill include:

1. Flexible Project Delivery: The bill outlines various modes of project delivery, such as Build-Own-Operate (BOO) and Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT), allowing for flexibility in financing and implementation.
2. Enhanced Efficiency: By leveraging private sector expertise and resources, the PPP model aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of public service delivery.
3. Sustainability: The bill emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, ensuring that infrastructure projects meet long-term community needs while minimizing environmental impact.

Impact on Iligan City and Beyond

Regencia believes that the PPP Act will significantly benefit both the government and the Filipino people by attracting investment and expertise to critical infrastructure projects. For Iligan City, this could mean accelerated development of healthcare facilities, improved transportation systems, and enhanced public services.

As the PPP Act progresses through the Senate, it is anticipated that it will create a framework for successful partnerships that can drive economic growth and development in the region.

Celso G. Regencia’s legislative initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing Iligan City and the broader region. His bills—aimed at restructuring the Philippine National Police, establishing a district hospital, and promoting public-private partnerships—demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public safety and healthcare access for residents.

As these measures gain momentum in the Senate, Regencia’s optimism for their passage highlights the potential for transformative change in Iligan City. With the support of lawmakers and the community, these initiatives could pave the way for a safer, healthier, and more prosperous future for all residents. Through strategic reforms and collaborative efforts, Iligan City can emerge as a model for effective governance and community well-being in the Philippines.