Davao de oro: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday turned over more than PHP147 million to the Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital (DDOPH) - Montevista to augment its medical equipment. Marcos handed over the assistance during his visit to the DDOPH - Montevista, as part of the government's efforts to strengthen public healthcare services.
According to Philippines News Agency, during the launch of the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang at the Provincial Capitol Compound in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, Marcos said he visited the provincial hospital to inspect damage due to recent earthquakes and check the newly completed hospital wing, which had been scheduled for inauguration earlier. Marcos emphasized that improving access to healthcare remains one of his administration's top priorities, focusing on preventive healthcare as well as treating illness.
Marcos cited government programs on immunization, nutrition, and early medical consultations as key initiatives to prevent diseases and ensure timely treatment for patients. Davao de Oro Governor Raul Mabanglo welcomed the assistance, noting it would enhance the hospital's capacity to provide quality healthcare services to residents. Mabanglo also appealed for continued national government support to further expand and upgrade the provincial hospital.
The hospital, with a capacity of 160 beds, has been experiencing increasing demand, serving an average of 263 inpatients, 205 outpatients, and 105 emergency room patients daily. To meet this growing need, the government funded the construction of a new medical ward, which began admitting patients on June 6 and now accommodates 61 patients.
During the visit, Marcos also witnessed the discharge of a patient who benefited from the Zero Balance Billing (ZBB) program, allowing qualified patients to access healthcare services without hospitalization costs. From July 2025 to June 2026, 81,493 patients at DDOPH-Montevista benefited from the program. The government aims to upgrade the hospital from a Level 1 to a Level 2 facility by 2027 to further expand its services and capacity.
