In a significant move to modernize healthcare services, Davao de Oro Governor Raul G. Mabanglo has officially launched the Davao de Oro Integrated Referral Information System (DDO-Iris), marking a transformative step in provincial medical care.
Digital Transformation in Healthcare
The provincial government inaugurated DDO-Iris on November 17, 2025, creating a streamlined digital pathway for patient referrals across the healthcare network. This innovative system replaces traditional paper-based processes with digital technology, enabling faster and more efficient patient transfers from Barangay Health Stations (BHS) to Rural Health Units (RHUs) and ultimately to the province's four main hospitals.
This launch builds upon earlier digital health initiatives, including the DDO E-Referral System that was rolled out in August 2025 through collaboration between the Provincial Information and Communications Technology Office (Picto) and the Provincial Health Office (PHO).
Testing and Implementation Process
During the pilot phase, the provincial government conducted comprehensive simulation exercises in Barangays Cabidianan and Sta. Maria in Nabunturan. The Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital in Montevista served as the primary testing ground for system integration, ensuring the technology worked seamlessly across different healthcare facilities.
Governor Mabanglo has been a strong advocate for the system, emphasizing its role in advancing Universal Health Care and the broader digital transformation of government services. During his 100-Day Progress Report, he highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating: "Kon magpadayon ang pakig-alayon sa nagkalain-laing ahensya sa gobyerno ug pribadong institusyon, inubanan sa partisipasyon sa matag-usa, walay hagit nga dili nato kaya nga atubangon" - underscoring that with continued cooperation between various government agencies and private institutions, accompanied by everyone's participation, no challenge is too great to face.
Comprehensive Healthcare Revitalization
The DDO-Iris launch represents just one component of Governor Mabanglo's broader healthcare agenda during his first 100 days in office. His administration has established Task Force Kahimsog, which oversees the rehabilitation of four provincial hospitals: Montevista, Pantukan, Maragusan, and Laak.
In Pantukan, Governor Mabanglo personally inspected hospital facilities and coordinated with local officials, the Provincial Engineer's Office, and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to push for urgent upgrades. The comprehensive improvement plans include:
- Expanding outpatient departments
- Modernizing emergency rooms
- Upgrading laboratory facilities
- Constructing new buildings to accommodate more patients
Through Task Force Kahimsog, Mabanglo has established a multi-sectoral framework involving hospital chiefs, health office representatives, provincial administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure systematic improvements across all four medical facilities.
Immediate Improvements and Future Vision
Beyond planning, the administration has already delivered tangible results. In July 2025, the province distributed 60 new hospital beds across the four provincial hospitals, addressing capacity issues and enhancing patient comfort. Additional donations of wall-mounted electric fans and wheelchairs have further improved facilities, particularly at DDOPH Montevista where overcrowding and ventilation problems had been observed.
Governor Mabanglo's hands-on approach includes regular inspections of hospital operations and facility assessments, ensuring that improvements are implemented quickly and effectively. The DDO-Iris system underscores his vision to make public health services more accessible, efficient, and data-driven for all residents of Davao de Oro.
These combined initiatives - from digital referral systems to hospital infrastructure upgrades - demonstrate a holistic approach to healthcare revitalization that could mark a turning point in Davao de Oro's public health system, moving toward a more resilient, patient-centered model for the entire province.
