Cotabato residents push BARMM parliament to pass Children’s Hospital bill

COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Residents here are urging the Bangsamoro parliament to fast-track the passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Children’s Hospital Act of 2025, a measure that seeks to establish a dedicated children’s hospital in the city.

The bill, authored by Parliament Member Naguib Sinarimbo, envisions a 200-bed facility to be managed by the Ministry of Health of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Sinarimbo, who previously served as BARMM’s minister of local government, filed the proposal—formally known as BTA Bill 379—before the 80-seat parliament last week. He expressed confidence that his colleagues would throw their support behind the measure.

If passed, the hospital will provide free services and also spearhead nutrition programs for children across the region, according to the bill’s explanatory note.

Parents from Cotabato City and nearby Maguindanao del Norte towns—including Sultan Kudarat and Datu Odin Sinsuat—welcomed the proposal in informal surveys conducted on Saturday, September 6.

Many mothers from low-income families said they believe lawmakers will approve the measure unanimously, describing the hospital as a long-overdue lifeline for the region’s children.

The proposal now awaits deliberation in the Bangsamoro parliament.

About The Author

John Unson

John Unson is a veteran Filipino journalist who serves as a staff writer for the regions “Central Mindanao and BARMM” at The Philippine Star. He covers news and events in Mindanao — especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the broader Central Mindanao area. His reporting spans a wide range of topics including security incidents, terrorist-related developments, drug enforcement, smuggling operations, social issues, and regional politics.

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