Former NSA Clarita Carlos Questions Why Other Provinces Can’t Implement South Cotabato’s Free Hospitalization Program

In a recent Facebook post, former National Security Adviser Professor Clarita Carlos highlighted South Cotabato's innovative healthcare approach, where government-run hospitals operate without cashiers, providing all services free of charge. She posted a thought-provoking question: "Kung kaya ng sa South Cotabato at na walang CASHIERS sa kanilang hospitals, bakit hindi sa lahat ng probinsiya? Bakit?" (If South Cotabato can do it without cashiers in their hospitals, why can't all provinces? Why?)

Implemented by Gov. Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. on July 1, 2019, his first day as Governor of South Cotabato, the Zero Billing Policy ensures that patients receive completely free hospitalization and medical services in all provincial government-run hospitals, including facilities in Koronadal City, Norala, Surallah, Tupi, and Polomolok.

This policy, made possible through strategic government funding and partnerships, has significantly eased the financial burden on residents and improved access to quality healthcare.

Carlos's post has drawn overwhelming support from Filipinos across the country, with many praising South Cotabato’s leadership and criticizing the lack of national awareness about the province’s success.

"There is always one thing serious in the heart of the Mindanaoans, and that is to serve. It is also one of the pillars of faith—the 'alms' directed to the poor."

"Proud South Cotabatañeo here! We are just so lucky for the initiative of our provincial government, headed by our beloved Governor Jun Tamayo."

"South Cotabato should be categorized as the 'Province of Champions and Excellence' and should be awarded as a MODEL PROVINCE in the Philippines. Media outfits should elevate their practices by focusing on the positive."

Others lamented how Manila-centric media has failed to highlight the positive developments in Mindanao, with one netizen commenting:

"Why doesn’t the entire Philippines know about this? Many of us, even from Northern Mindanao, are still clouded with the notion that our southern areas are terrorism-infested, dangerous, and underdeveloped. I will always blame the Manila-centric media for this. We've been poisoned with negativity against our fellow Mindanaoans since childhood."

Carlos’s post has intensified discussions on why similar policies are not yet implemented nationwide, challenging local and national leaders to reexamine their healthcare priorities.

With South Cotabato proving that free hospitalization is possible, many now call for other provinces to follow suit and for national agencies to recognize and replicate this groundbreaking model.

Should all provinces adopt South Cotabato’s ‘No Cashier’ hospital policy? What do you think?