The Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) has categorically denied online claims that it would refuse or limit medical services to patients based on their political affiliations, calling such allegations false and misleading.
Hospital Statement on Equal Access
In a statement released on May 13, SPMC emphasized that healthcare must never be politicized. Our doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers continue to uphold the principle that every patient deserves equal access to quality medical care, the hospital said.
Origin of the Viral Posts
The clarification came after several social media posts went viral, urging SPMC to stop accepting patients from provinces and cities whose congressmen voted in favor of the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte. One post read: Dear SPMC, pls refrain from accepting patients from nearby provinces and cities, nga nag YES sa impeachment, and ihungit sila sa ilang congressman instead, suggesting that those supporting the impeachment should seek help from their respective lawmakers.
Another post in Cebuano said: Kitang taga Davao del Sur og magpa hospital ta sa SPMC dili ta mamatay satong sakit mamatay tas kaulaw (We from Davao del Sur won't die from our illness when we go to SPMC — we'll die from shame instead).
Public Reaction and Context
The posts garnered hundreds of reactions, shares, and mixed opinions online. The controversy stems from the May 11 impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte by the House of Representatives, where 255 lawmakers voted to adopt the Articles of Impeachment. Twenty-six voted against, and nine abstained. The complaints include allegations of misuse of confidential funds, abuse of authority, and betrayal of public trust.
SPMC reiterated its commitment to providing unbiased medical care to all patients, regardless of political views.
