The Ministry of Health in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOH-BARMM) has turned over two modern sea ambulances amounting to PHP19 million to the towns of Lugus, Sulu; and Turtle Island in Tawi-Tawi, an official said Tuesday.

“This generous contribution is poised to enhance emergency medical services in the remote and maritime regions, addressing the unique challenges of providing timely healthcare access to island communities,” MOH-BARMM minister Dr. Rizaldy Piang said, citing that the vessels were donated.

On Monday afternoon, a signing of a memorandum of understanding took place between the MOH and Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Deputy Speaker Laisa Alamia, who sponsored the donation under her Transitional Development Impact Fund 2022.

Piang said the sea ambulances, equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities, will serve as lifelines for communities in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, where geographical remoteness and maritime settings often pose challenges to swift medical assistance.

Meanwhile, Alamia, a lawyer, underscored the need for accessible quality healthcare services, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas in BARMM.

She said the sea ambulances symbolize not only enhanced emergency medical capabilities “but also a collaborative effort to ensure that no Bangsamoro is left behind in the pursuit of quality healthcare.” (PNA)