The Council for Health and Development, the national organization of more than 70 community-based health programs in the Philippines, strongly condemns another act of violence against a doctor on February 3, 2024 and enjoins the family, friends, colleagues, and patients in calling for justice and immediate investigation.

Dr. Sharmaine Barroquillo, a physician working in Sultan Kudarat Provincial Hospital was attacked by unknown gunmen while driving along Datu Paglas highway in Maguindanao from Davao City. She was on her way to the provincial hospital in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat where she works with health professionals who attend to hundreds of patients daily in the area.

Despite her injuries, Dr. Barroquillo was able to drive herself to the hospital but accidentally hit a tricycle and injured three persons when she passed out. She is currently recovering from her gunshot wounds in an undisclosed hospital.

This attack on Dr. Barroquillo, a young doctor who recently passed the Physician Licensure Exam last 2023, sends a chilling effect on medical practitioners who are serving and want to serve in the countrysides — where the people lack access to basic health services and hardly see a doctor in their lifetime.

CHD calls for a speedy investigation and justice for Dr. Barroquillo. Stop all the attacks against health workers and medical professionals. End impunity.#