Archival targets CCMC completion in December

MANILA, Philippines —  The target completion date for the long-delayed Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) building has resurfaced as Mayor Nestor Archival pushes all involved agencies to coordinate and work together, setting December this year as the anticipated finish.

Renewing what he said was his commitment to finally deliver the hospital project that began more than a decade ago, Archival led a joint inspection and coordination meeting, stressing unity and urgency to realize the long-overdue completion of the project.

The latest inspection included representatives from the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH)-7, Bureau of Fire Protection Region (BFP)-7, Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW), Office of the Building Official (OBO), CCMC, and the Office of the City Architect.

Together, they assessed progress, checked compliance with safety and building standards, and discussed measures to keep the project on track.

“We are hoping that this will be finished on or before December,” Archival said during the meeting.

He reflected on the hospital’s troubled history as he emphasized focus and accountability.

“We will be very proud that after so many years, 14 years ago we started this, but until now it has not been completed, within the next seven to eight months, we can finally finish it,” said Archival.

“That’s why our only focus is, what are the things we need to do, so we can continue to pay attention and achieve this,” he added.

The CCMC was condemned in 2013 after the Bohol earthquake left the old building unsafe. In February 2014, the structure was demolished under then Mayor Michael Rama.

A year later, in 2015, the groundbreaking for a new 10-story hospital was held, signaling the start of what was envisioned as Cebu City’s flagship public hospital.

Rama lost his reelection bid in 2016 to now Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, who served as mayor until 2019. Progress reportedly stalled during this period due to permit and budget issues.

In 2019, Osmeña was defeated by Edgardo Labella, who resumed construction. By December 2020, the first three floors were partially opened to the public, offering limited services.

Labella’s tenure was cut short by his death in November 2021. His successor, Rama, terminated the city’s contract with M.E. Sicat Construction in 2022 due to delays, leaving the project without a valid contractor.

By 2024, the City Council raised transparency concerns, noting that P2 billion had already been spent while only three floors were operational.

Archival, who assumed office in 2025, disclosed that engineers had discovered P403 million worth of structural defects, forcing rectification works.

Last February, construction resumed for Phase 5, covering floors 4 to 7, with Dakay Construction awarded a P700 million contract. Archival’s latest inspection was part of his effort to ensure that the project remains on track and that the hospital will already be expanded by next year after the completion of its latest phase in December.

At present, only the first three floors of the new CCMC are operational, along with Operation Smile on the seventh floor.

The Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged possible overpricing in earlier phases, further complicating the project’s financial picture.

Despite these setbacks, Archival reiterated his administration’s determination to deliver the hospital.

He framed the CCMC as a vital investment in Cebu City’s healthcare system, promising that the government will “take action and take care” to ensure the facility finally opens at full capacity.  (CEBU NEWS)