Celebrating Heroes: Misamis Occidental Honors its Teachers and Champions Progress

COURTESY: ASENSO MISOCC

Misamis Occidental recently became a hub of celebration and gratitude as the province honored its teachers, the unsung heroes shaping its future. The 2024 Asenso Awards and Teacher’s Day Celebration was a grand affair, graced by the presence of esteemed leaders including Governor Henry S. Oaminal, 1st District Representative Congressman Jason P. Almonte, Vice-Governor Rowena Gutierrez, and DepEd-MisOcc Schools Division Superintendent Reynaldo Manuel Jr. This event was not just about accolades but a profound acknowledgment of the indispensable role teachers play in the province’s growth and development.

The event kicked off with a lively atmosphere, filled with joy and appreciation. Governor Henry S. Oaminal, in his charismatic manner, emphasized the significance of the day. He passionately spoke about the theme, “Sa Asensong Probinsya, Magtutudlo, Pinangga Ka,” which translates to “In the Province's Progress, Teachers, You Are Cherished.” This theme resonated deeply with everyone present, highlighting the vital role teachers play as the guides of progress.

Governor Oaminal's speech was a heartfelt tribute to teachers, acknowledging them as the strongest pillars of society. He remarked, “Kamo nga mga magtutudlo ang atong gabay sa pag-Asenso kay kamo man ang gigikanan sa kahibalo.” This translates to, “You, the teachers, are our guides in progress because you are the source of knowledge.” His words resonated with the audience, reflecting the collective respect and admiration for the teaching profession.

The celebration was not just about words; it also recognized tangible achievements. Governor Oaminal proudly cited the province's success in the recent Palarong Pampook held in Camiguin. Misamis Occidental's athletes brought home an impressive 52 gold medals, a testament to the dedication and hard work of both students and teachers. Additionally, the Sibugon Integrated School in Lopez Jaena was recognized for ranking as the top 3 performing school in the 2023 National Achievement Test.

These accomplishments were celebrated with great enthusiasm, serving as a reminder of the positive impact teachers have on students and the community. The Governor expressed his heartfelt gratitude, saluting teachers for their unwavering dedication. “The challenges you face today are far greater than before, but despite these, you continue to inspire our youth,” he stated, emphasizing the respect and admiration teachers deserve for their relentless efforts.

Governor Oaminal reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing education within the province. His vision extends beyond mere words, focusing on tangible actions to improve facilities, provide more resources, and create opportunities for the youth. He passionately declared, “Investing in education is investing in our future, and there is no better investment we can make.” This commitment is a beacon of hope for the province, ensuring that education remains a top priority.

The Governor's dedication to education aligns perfectly with the core message of the event's theme. By enhancing teachers' skills and knowledge through sessions on financial literacy, career development, and personal growth, the province is taking concrete steps towards a brighter future. This holistic approach ensures that teachers are not just educators but also empowered individuals capable of driving progress.

As the event drew to a close, Governor Oaminal left the audience with a powerful message. He called upon everyone in Misamis Occidental to embody the province's core values and work together for a brighter and more prosperous future. His words, “Success is not measured by individual accomplishments alone but by how much we uplift and inspire one another,” served as a reminder that collective efforts lead to true progress.

The 2024 Asenso Awards and Teacher’s Day Celebration was more than just an event; it was a testament to the province's commitment to education and progress. By honoring teachers and celebrating achievements, Misamis Occidental is paving the way for a future where education is at the forefront of development. The event concluded with a sense of unity and purpose, inspiring everyone to continue striving for excellence.

The Dawn of a New Era in Ozamiz's Healthcare: The Soft Opening of SMLao Hospital

CREDIT: ASENSO MISOCC

Ozamiz City, a bustling hub in the province of Misamis Occidental, marked a significant milestone this week as it unveiled the SM Lao Memorial City General Hospital. Spearheaded by none other than the city's dynamic Mayor, Henry "Indy" Oaminal Jr, the soft opening of the hospital was hailed as a "significant breakthrough" in the city's healthcare sector.

The inaugural ceremony was not just a ribbon-cutting event; it symbolized the city's unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality. It was a testament to the transformative vision of the Padayon Asenso Ozamiz Administration, which continues to shape the city's health landscape.

The soft opening of the hospital is a landmark moment, marking the beginning of the hospital's transitional period. This period is a crucial time for the hospital team, allowing them to acclimate to the new facilities, personnel, and operational procedures.

Mayor Oaminal emphasized the importance of this phase, stating that it provides the team with an opportunity to identify areas for improvement and adjust to new procedures. He added, "It's a time for learning and growth, for refining our operations, and for ensuring we provide the best care possible."

Equipped with an initial capacity of 17 beds, the SM Lao Hospital is poised to address the gaps in the community's healthcare needs. While it currently operates at an infirmary level, plans are already in motion to expand the hospital into a level 1 facility in the future.

The Mayor expressed optimism about the hospital's potential to accommodate up to 50 patients. This expansion would alleviate the pressure on other healthcare institutions and ensure that more residents receive the care they need.

In her speech, Mayor Oaminal underscored the importance of collaboration between neighboring regions to enhance healthcare delivery. "By working together, we can ensure that our healthcare system is robust, equitable, and capable of serving all our citizens," she said.

Dr. Holly Tago, Governor Henry Oaminal's representative, echoed these sentiments. She underscored the provincial government's support for the initiative, recognizing its role in strengthening the overall healthcare infrastructure.

One of the key objectives of the SM Lao Hospital is to decentralize healthcare services. By doing so, the hospital aims to promote equitable access and relieve pressure on centralized facilities.

This approach aligns with Mayor Oaminal's vision of a healthcare system that serves all citizens, regardless of their location. "Decentralizing healthcare services," she said, "is not just about relieving pressure on our main facilities. It's about bringing healthcare closer to our citizens, making it more accessible and convenient for them."

Mayor Oaminal also highlighted the financial benefits of operating a local hospital. By keeping healthcare services within the city, the hospital will stimulate the local economy and increase revenue circulation.

The soft opening of the SM Lao Memorial City General Hospital is more than just a new building. It's a strategic investment in the health and well-being of Ozamiz residents. It underscores the commitment of the Padayon Asenso Ozamiz Administration to prioritize healthcare as a fundamental aspect of community development.

As the hospital prepares to fully integrate into the healthcare ecosystem, Ozamiz residents can anticipate enhanced medical services and improved healthcare outcomes. With a dedicated team of healthcare professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, the hospital is poised to set new standards in the city's healthcare sector.

According to the local government, the opening of the SM Lao Memorial City General Hospital marks the dawn of a new era for Ozamiz City and its constituents. It's a sign of progress and prosperity, a testament to the city's resilience and commitment to the well-being of its citizens.

The SM Lao Memorial City General Hospital is more than just a hospital. It's a beacon of hope, a symbol of the city's commitment to its citizens' health and well-being. As it grows and evolves, it will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of healthcare in Ozamiz City.