The city government of Mandaue has achieved a monumental breakthrough in its public service agenda, securing financial commitments exceeding P1 billion from senators for two flagship projects: the construction of the Modern Mandaue City Hospital and the expansion of the Mandaue City College.
Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano announced the successful acquisition of these pledges, which followed his direct appeal to the Senate on August 8, 2025.
Breakdown of the Billion-Peso Pledges
The financial support from the national legislators is substantial and targeted. For the Modern Mandaue City Hospital, Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto has pledged P300 million for Phase 3 of the project. Senator Bong Go has committed P250 million specifically for Phase 2.
Further bolstering the healthcare initiative, Senator Lito Lapid promised P65 million for the hospital's Phase 4. Congresswoman Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano Dizon also pledged P130 million for the hospital, a sum that is in addition to the P387 million she had already allocated previously.
For the educational sector, the Mandaue City College expansion received equally impressive backing. Senator Raffy Tulfo pledged a significant P200 million for Phase 2 of the new campus. Senator Lito Lapid committed an additional P75 million for Phase 3 of the college, while Congresswoman Dizon pledged P100 million.
A Long-Awaited Project Moves Forward
Mayor Ouano expressed profound relief and happiness that the years of planning are finally culminating in tangible action. He revealed that the initial budget estimate for the modern hospital was between P800 million to P1 billion, designed to include advanced equipment and a capacity of 257 beds.
"We are very happy because we can now build our Modern Mandaue City Hospital," the mayor stated, emphasizing that the project is now on a clear path to realization.
The construction of the new medical facility is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026. It will be built within the same compound as the existing hospital, which will remain fully operational throughout the entire construction period.
"I want to reiterate that we will not close our existing hospital while the new one is being built unless the modern hospital is already operational," Mayor Ouano assured the public.
Financial Prudence and Next Steps
A key advantage of this funding strategy is the minimal financial strain on the city. Mayor Ouano highlighted that the city is not taking out any loans for this massive undertaking.
"We are relying on the contributions... so the City will not be heavily burdened financially," he explained. He also noted that the construction timeline is realistic, expecting completion within two to three years, similar to the city's government center project.
While the pledges are a powerful vote of confidence, City Administrator Gonzalo “Sally” Malig-on provided a crucial note of caution. The final confirmation of these funds is contingent upon their inclusion in the national budget.
"The senators have made their pledges... but we cannot be certain until all of it appears in the General Appropriations Act," Malig-on stated, underscoring the importance of the forthcoming legislative process to solidify these commitments.
This development marks a significant leap forward for healthcare and education infrastructure in Mandaue, promising enhanced services for its residents for years to come.
