Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro questioned the alleged special treatment given to former Capitol consultant Byron Garcia at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) when he was arrested on June 11, 2026.
Governor's Inquiry
During a press conference on Wednesday, June 17, Baricuatro revealed that based on police station records, Garcia was transferred to VSMMC in less than an hour after being initially brought to the Talisay Police Station.
"I also questioned why he was admitted in less than an hour when our patients with brain bleeds find it very difficult to get admitted," the governor said.
Disparity in Admission
She noted that ordinary patients suffering from more severe medical conditions struggle to gain admission to the same hospital. Patients from district or provincial hospitals often wait weeks or months before being admitted to VSMMC.
"I guess they also cater to VIP, which has a different meaning: Very Irritating Person," Baricuatro added.
E-Referral System
Baricuatro also questioned the swift implementation of the electronic referral (e-referral) system in Central Visayas. The e-referral system provides an organized process for tracking referrals, ensuring proper communication between hospitals, and guaranteeing correct triage based on the patient's needs and appropriate level of care.
When asked by reporters about the regional electronic referral system protocol, she directed them to inquire directly with the hospital administration. "Yeah, surprising maybe this is your chance to ask Dr. Aquino," she said.
Call for Explanation
The governor called on VSMMC Medical Center Chief Dr. Gerardo Aquino to explain the circumstances surrounding Garcia's admission, stating she would raise the issue with the Department of Health (DOH), which oversees the facility.
"Ask Dr. Aquino why that happened. Because I also want to ask him when we meet. I will call him and ask why that happened," the official added. She mentioned that she had tried to contact Aquino but, as of writing, he had not responded to her text messages.
