LUNA, Apayao – What began as a vision for better healthcare in Apayao has now stood strong for 27 years.
The Far North Luzon General Hospital and Training Center (FNLGHTC) gathered its doctors, nurses, staff, officials, and partners on March 7, at Aliwa Gym, San Isidro, Luna, to celebrate its history and to reaffirm its mission.
Among those present were Apayao Lone District Representative Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, Officer-in-Charge, FNLGHTC Medical Chief Dr. Nelson Rigor, former medical center chiefs Dr. Danilo Domingo, Dr. Marlene Libatique-Lubo, and hospital chiefs from different hospitals in the province.
In his message, Dr. Rigor honored the late Elias K. Bulut Sr., whose determination built the foundation for FNLGHTC. “Kung wala siya, wala rin tayo dito,” he said, and reminded everyone that the hospital was about commitment to service.
He then outlined three core principles that should guide the hospital’s future. He emphasized the need for teamwork (Magtulungan), saying that progress is only possible when everyone works together. He stressed that respect (Magalang) and courtesy must define every patient interaction, and that the best service comes from discipline, order, and continuous improvement (Maayos).
He ended with words that have long guided Apayao’s mindset: “Walang imposible sa ibabaw ng lupa. Kung imposible, sistemahan mo para maging possible,” he concluded.
Domingo, who once led FNLGHTC through major transitions, reflected on how far the hospital has come, from a struggling facility to a recognized center for healthcare and medical training in Northern Luzon.
The event also highlighted FNLGHTC’s recent achievements. The hospital was awarded the Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Program Accreditation of Aerobic Bacteriology Laboratories 2024: Phase 1, Best Performing Hospital Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, Adolescent-Friendly Health Facility Level 1 Accreditation, Level 1 Accredited Training Program, Gold Award for Performance Governance System (Office of the Strategic Management), and Excellence in Customer Service Award 2024.
Hospital staff were also recognized for their dedication. Employees who have served for five to fifteen years received loyalty awards, while others were honored with the Siglat Award, performance governance service awards, and in-training service awards.
Bulut-Begtang, in her message, lauded FNLGHTC’s progress. “Masaya ako dahil maraming awards na nare-receive ang Far North, pati ang mga employees. We should stand united in a shared mission to provide the highest standard of healthcare to our fellow yApayaos.”
After 27 years, the hospital moves forward with bigger goals, determined to expand its reach, sharpen its services, and continue the work it started nearly three decades ago. By Loremia Pareja
