This city’s molecular diagnostic laboratory received accolades from the Department of Health (DOH) for its outstanding performance in service delivery.

City Information Officer Richard Ligad said on Friday that the laboratory earned the distinction as one of the best practices in the Mimaropa region after a thorough selection process and deliberation by the Award Selection Committee.

The staff members were lauded for surpassing their expected responsibilities, particularly during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In a memorandum dated Nov. 14, Undersecretary Nestor Santiago Jr. conveyed the DOH’s recognition of the molecular lab’s exemplary service delivery as part of the “Presentation of Best Practices.”

Ligad stated that Mayor Lucilo Bayron’s commitment to fulfill City Health Office chief Dr. Ricardo Panganiban’s request to establish Puerto Princesa’s own molecular laboratory, worth PHP26 million, at the peak of the pandemic contributed to their success.

“The mayor recognized the significance of the laboratory in rapidly conducting Covid-19 tests and providing confirmatory testing and results that can only be achieved through a molecular lab. This allows for the prompt and appropriate medical attention for patients displaying Covid-19 symptoms,” he said.

In addition to the prestigious Presentation of Best Practices recognition, the molecular laboratory is set to receive a special award on Dec. 1 for its Quality Assurance Program within the Mimaropa region. (PNA)