TACLOBAN CITY – A health professional has commended the provincial government of Samar for establishing a facility dedicated to providing essential medical and therapeutic intervention for children with special needs.
Dr. Sheryll Bañez Palami, a developmental behavioral pediatrician and part-time consultant at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC), emphasized the importance of such a facility in the region.
On February 12, the provincial government of Samar, led by Governor Sharee Ann Tan, inaugurated the Samar Center for Developmental Pediatrics (CDP) at the Spark Samar Development Hub in Catbalogan City.
The CDP offers crucial services such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy, addressing the increasing demand for specialized developmental care in the province.
“Although we already have this at EVMC, it is not enough,” Dr. Palami said, noting that many children require specialized treatment that existing facilities cannot fully provide.
She added that the CDP, being an LGU-run facility, will significantly benefit underprivileged families who struggle to afford private therapy centers.
“Other areas have therapy centers, but they require out-of-pocket payment. This Samar initiative is a great help to families with special needs children,” she added, expressing hope that other LGUs in the region would establish similar facilities.
“Logistics can be difficult because many of these children are sensitive to sounds and have difficulty traveling. For families from Catbalogan, traveling to Tacloban can be expensive and challenging, so having a local facility is a huge relief,” she further explained.
During the launch, Governor Tan underscored the initiative as a crucial step toward human capital development, ensuring that every child receives the support they deserve.
“Investing in our children’s well-being and future is a top priority. Through the Samar Center for Developmental Pediatrics, we are creating a more inclusive and supportive community where every child can thrive,” she stated.
Beyond therapy services, the center will also provide training for parents and teachers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to better support children with special needs.
The CDP will operate under the supervision of the Samar Provincial Hospital to ensure high-quality medical and therapeutic care.
To avail of the center’s services, parents must present their PhilHealth ID and their child’s birth certificate. Non-PhilHealth members must submit two valid IDs for registration. Non-residents of Samar can also access services by completing an online registration form and submitting the required documents via email.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
