The Mandaue City Government has achieved a significant milestone with the inclusion of major funding in the national budget for two landmark infrastructure projects. The 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) has allocated a combined P865 million for the construction of the Mandaue City College (MCC) and a modernized Mandaue City Hospital (MCH).
Major Funding Boost for Education and Healthcare
City Administrator Gonzalo Malig-on Jr. confirmed the substantial budget allocation. The national government has earmarked P450 million for the Mandaue City College and another P415 million for the hospital project. According to Malig-on, the implementation of these projects is targeted to commence before the end of the first quarter of this year.
These developments are a direct result of Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano's persistent advocacy to enhance access to quality education and improve healthcare services for Mandauehanons. The funding marks a crucial first step in turning these long-standing plans into reality.
Project Implementation and Phased Construction
Malig-on clarified that the current GAA allocations do not yet cover the complete project costs. However, he expressed confidence that additional funding commitments from national officials will be released in phases to ensure completion.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has been designated as the implementing agency for both constructions. Meanwhile, the Mandaue City Government is financing and finalizing the detailed engineering design, which will serve as the blueprint for the builders.
Once finished, the Mandaue City Hospital is slated for an upgrade to a Level 2 facility, offering more comprehensive medical services. The new Mandaue City College campus will rise at Norkis Park in Barangay Looc. Mayor Ouano announced that soil testing is already in progress, and construction for the MCC could potentially start around April.
A Foundation for Future Development
The construction will be executed in phases, a strategic move that will allow completed portions of the facilities to be utilized even as work continues on other sections. This approach aims to deliver public benefits at the earliest possible time.
Mayor Ouano emphasized that the funding secured for this year is sufficient to kickstart the initial phase of both the college and hospital projects. The city government plans to seek further appropriations in subsequent national budgets to fully complete these transformative developments for Mandaue City.
