The Cebu Provincial Government is upgrading the Mariano Jesus Cuenco Memorial Hospital in Malabuyoc town to a Level 1 hospital, aiming to bring more advanced medical services to residents in the southwestern part of Cebu.
Deed of Usufruct Signed
This initiative gained momentum after the Capitol and the Municipality of Malabuyoc signed a Deed of Usufruct, allowing the development and management of the facility. Under the usufruct agreement, the provincial government is authorized to use, develop, and manage the hospital property, while ownership remains with the local government of Malabuyoc.
Transition to Level 1 General Hospital
The agreement also paves the way for the transition of the facility from an infirmary to a fully licensed Level 1 general hospital. This step is part of the Capitol's broader effort to strengthen healthcare services in communities far from major medical centers.
Provincial officials said the upgrade is expected to ease urgent healthcare needs for residents of Malabuyoc and nearby areas. The project is also seen as a long-term investment in healthcare infrastructure in southwestern Cebu.
Expanded Services
Once fully upgraded, the hospital will offer a wider range of services, including surgical procedures, clinical laboratory testing, and blood station facilities, benefiting not only Malabuyoc residents but also those in neighboring towns.
“Level 1 means they can already perform surgeries. They already have two anesthesia machines and, if I’m not mistaken, there is already a surgeon there,” said Governor Pamela Baricuatro during a press conference on June 17, 2026.
