Mandaue hospital upgrade now a step closer to construction

CEBU, Philippines — The proposed modernized Mandaue City Hospital (MCH) has entered the detailed engineering design phase as city officials move to complete technical and regulatory requirements ahead of construction.

City officials and project consultants met on March 19 to finalize architectural plans and align documentation needed to secure a Permit to Construct and other pre-construction approvals.

The meeting was presided over by Lone District Representative Emmarie Ouano-Dizon, who said the completion of the design stage is a key step in pushing the long-planned hospital project toward implementation.

Project architect Zuriel La Torre presented the hospital’s final design, which calls for a four-storey structure with a roof deck and a total floor area of approximately 17,800 square meters.

The facility is intended to replace and upgrade the city’s existing hospital services, with planners saying it is designed to meet current healthcare standards and accommodate future expansion.

The project will be implemented through phased construction, with Phase 1 carrying an estimated cost of P457 million. Officials said the phased approach is meant to allow the city to manage funding while ensuring that critical hospital components are prioritized once construction begins.

Beyond architectural plans, consultants also presented several technical studies required for project approval.

A Traffic Impact Assessment, led by architect Rey Boy Osal, outlined proposed traffic circulation and mitigation measures to address the expected increase in vehicle volume once the hospital becomes operational.

Meanwhile, engineer Paul Ampong discussed the project’s drainage assessment plan, which aims to equip the hospital with preventions from flooding, particularly during heavy rains.

City officials said these studies are critical in ensuring that the hospital’s construction and eventual operation will not adversely affect surrounding communities.

The city government, under the administration of Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano, said preparations are focused on completing all technical requirements before any ground is broken, to avoid delays during construction.

Also present during the meeting were City Administrator Gonzalo Malig-on Jr., MCH Chief Hospital Ligaya Lakambini Dargantes, Opao Barangay Captain Nixon Dizon, City Planning and Urban Development Office head Marlo Ocleasa, Project Development Officer Charlene Cañete, and Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue chief Hyll Retuya.

Representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways Region 7, led by Assistant Regional Director Nonito Paylado, also attended the meeting to review compliance with national infrastructure standards.

Officials from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) were likewise present to ensure that fire safety and emergency requirements are incorporated into the final design.

City officials said the completion of the detailed engineering design will allow the local government to proceed with securing remaining permits and approvals, bringing the MCH project closer to the construction phase.