CONCEPCION, Tarlac (Oct. 2, 2025) — The municipality of Concepcion marked a significant step in strengthening its public health system with the formal inauguration of the Super Health Center Unit IV in Barangay Tinang on Thursday, October 2, 2025.
The historic ceremony was led by Concepcion Mayor Noel Villanueva and Tarlac Governor Christian Yap, underscoring the collaborative effort between local and provincial governments.
The event commenced with a blessing officiated by Rev. Fr. Melvin Baldoz, followed by the ceremonial opening of the new facility.
Dr. Orgie Feliciano, the Rural Health Physician for Unit IV, detailed the center’s capabilities, confirming it complies with primary care standards. The health center is equipped with an ultrasound machine, a primary laboratory, a chest x-ray, an incision room, a birthing area, a pharmacy, and a dental room.
“Almost 10,000 patients have already been served, and we remain committed to continuously providing quality healthcare for all,” Dr. Feliciano announced, highlighting the immediate impact of the new center.
In his address, Mayor Villanueva emphasized his administration’s commitment to expanding healthcare access. “As of today, Concepcion already has five health units, and Brgy. Lilibangan will soon begin operations,” the Mayor stated. “In the coming years, we will add more until we achieve the Department of Health (DOH) target of one Rural Health Unit (RHU) for every 20,000 residents. This is the ideal health program our town deserves.”
Governor Yap praised Concepcion as a model for healthcare investment and revealed ambitious plans for the future. “I hope other municipalities will follow Mayor Noel’s example,” Governor Yap said. “Together with Congressman Bong, our next project is to upgrade the Concepcion District Hospital into a Level II hospital, which will require 40–50 additional nurses, an ICU, a modern laboratory, and new equipment.”
Echoing this forward-looking vision, Congressman Noel Rivera pledged to secure funding for three more RHUs next year. “Even if it cannot be sourced from the congressional budget, we will find other ways to fund it, because we can all see how beneficial these health services are,” Congressman Rivera affirmed.
Municipal Health Officer Dr. Benjamin Bengco III called on the community to cherish and support the new facility. “Let us take care of it, and most importantly, support it so that we can further improve our health services. Together, let us build a healthier and more progressive Concepcion,” Dr. Bengco urged.
The inauguration was complemented by a tree planting activity around the health unit, spearheaded by Mayor Villanueva and MENRO Sonofpray Dantes. Earlier in the day, the Provincial Health Office of Tarlac held the “Linaw Tingin” Eye Consultation Activity, providing free eye check-ups to residents.
Among those who attended were SB Member Marvin Macalino, Chairperson of the Committee on Health, ABC Vice President Ramon Manucduc Jr., Dr. Resurrecion Quiambao, Chief-of-Hospital II of Concepcion District Hospital, several Barangay Officials, RHU staff, and Barangay Health Workers who continue to serve as vital partners in providing healthcare to the community.
