Sen. Joel Villanueva called for urgent action to address the shortage of developmental pediatricians, suggesting additional consultant and fellowship positions in public hospitals.
Data showed that only 109 certified specialists serve an estimated five million learners with disabilities nationwide.
Nearly half of the available specialists are based in Metro Manila, leaving several regions with limited or no access to services.
The shortage has left many public-school learners with disabilities without formal medical diagnoses, with only 36.6 percent of nearly 493,000 flagged learners having confirmed diagnoses.
Villanueva urged the government to expand specialist training programs to improve access to diagnosis and continued support for children.
Source: PhilNews24 | November 5, 2026
VILLANUEVA URGES GOVERNMENT TO ADDRESS SHORTAGE OF DEVELOPMENTAL PEDIATRICIANS
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