Iloilo Provincial Board Moves to Shield Western Visayas Medical Center from Political Interference

ILOILO — In response to growing concerns over political interference in the operations of the Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) in Mandurriao, Iloilo, a resolution has been introduced in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan aimed at barring government officials from meddling with the hospital’s management and infrastructure projects.

Provincial Board member Rolex Suplico emphasized that such interference, particularly involving bids and contractors, may violate the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. He stated, "The management of the hospital should be in the hands of those who are professionally equipped to handle it."

This development came amid controversy surrounding Dr. Joseph Dean Nicolo, WVMC’s Medical Center Chief, whose reassignment to Zamboanga City by the Department of Health (DOH) was reversed after accusations suggested the transfer was politically motivated. Earlier, another board member, Rolando Distura, backed Dr. Nicolo’s continuance through Resolution No. 2025-09-05, praising his dedication, integrity, and service to public health.

Suplico clarified that his resolution goes beyond supporting Dr. Nicolo, addressing the broader need to protect WVMC from external political pressures. He remarked, "Public officials should refrain from interfering in the management of WVMC, including the bidding process of its projects. Such acts amount to graft."

Highlighting the importance of institutional independence, Suplico added, "Our priority must be ensuring the hospital operates free from political biases and remains focused exclusively on delivering quality healthcare to the community."

The proposal is currently under review by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and is seen by observers as a crucial test of the province’s commitment to safeguarding WVMC’s autonomy.

Meanwhile, the DOH Central Office has confirmed that Dr. Nicolo remains the Medical Center Chief. Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo stated, "Dr. Joseph Dean L. Nicolo continues to serve as the Medical Center Chief of the DOH Western Visayas Medical Center. Due process remains paramount as reports of multiple cases against him are under review by appropriate authorities."

The controversy escalated following unsubstantiated claims that a female official sought Dr. Nicolo’s transfer to Zamboanga City, a claim swiftly denied by Iloilo’s women legislators. Reports linked the attempted transfer to Dr. Nicolo’s refusal to participate in alleged kickback schemes related to two significant WVMC projects.

Hospital employees have expressed outrage over the transfer order, perceiving it as retaliation for Dr. Nicolo’s firm stance against corruption. According to sources, Dr. Nicolo openly stated to contractors that he has never solicited commissions or any form of payment in relation to hospital projects.

Having served WVMC for over 15 years, Dr. Nicolo has led the hospital to national acclaim, including recognition through the DOH’s Gold Trailblazer Award and pioneering procedures such as the region’s first awake craniotomy.

This resolution and ongoing developments underscore the imperative to maintain the integrity and independence of public healthcare institutions in the region.