The provincial government of Negros Oriental officially broke ground Monday to mark the start of the construction of the new Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital-Medical City, a 400-bed public medical facility expected to significantly improve healthcare delivery across the Province.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held at the existing NOPH compound, was led by Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria, local mayors, national government representatives, business leaders, healthcare professionals, educators, and hundreds of residents.
The project, described as a landmark investment in public health, aims to address longstanding problems such as overcrowding, outdated infrastructure, and limited access to specialized care.
A statement from the Capitol said the event marked “an important milestone, or a new chapter, in the Province’s journey toward modern and accessible healthcare.”
“This is more than just a building — it’s a promise kept to every Negrense who deserves dignified, efficient, and modern medical care,” said Governor Sagarbarria in his keynote address.
The new hospital will feature expanded intensive care and emergency units, additional operating rooms, and modern diagnostic and treatment facilities.
It is envisioned to serve not only Dumaguete City but also all 25 cities and municipalities of Negros Oriental. The facility is also expected to support the needs of retirees, students, and tourists.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to healthcare, noting that the hospital was a campaign priority when he took office in 2023.
He also addressed political concerns surrounding the project, stating, “The health of our people should never be a political issue.”
As the ceremonial shovels broke ground, business owners, academic leaders, and Negrenses expressed expressed hope that this new facility will help restore Negros Oriental’s reputation as a place where families can thrive and visitors feel secure.
Sagarbarria said the NOPH Medical City “stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community unites for the common good — a beacon of hope, healing, and progress for generations to come.”
Despite some opposition, the project has drawn broad support from stakeholders across the province. Local officials and civic leaders present at the event praised the initiative as a “critical step toward achieving more equitable and accessible medical services”.
Construction is scheduled to begin immediately, with completion targeted within the next few years. (PR)
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Photo Caption: Gov. Chaco Sagarbarria (in barong) leads the groundbreaking for the construction of the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital Medical City.
