Cebu City Council Greenlights 70 New Resident Physician Positions to Bolster CCMC Healthcare Services
The Cebu City Council has enacted a significant measure to enhance the city's healthcare infrastructure by approving the creation of 70 new specialized resident physician positions at the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC). This strategic move, formalized through City Ordinance 2804, aims to fortify the medical system and alleviate the workload of doctors, ensuring better patient care.
Ordinance Details and Implementation Framework
Sponsored by Councilor Michelle Abella-Cellona and passed on January 20, 2026, Ordinance 2804 officially establishes a residency training program at CCMC. The program will cover key medical departments, including Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics/Gynecology (OB-GYN), and Surgery. Under this new law, Resident Physicians, classified as Medical Officer III with Salary Grade 21, will receive temporary appointments that are renewable annually based on their work performance and clinical evaluations.
The allocation of positions is as follows:
- 20 positions for Pediatrics
- 18 positions for Surgery
- 17 positions for Internal Medicine
- 15 positions for OB-GYN
These resident physicians will be responsible for managing both inpatient and outpatient services, playing a crucial role in daily hospital operations.
Addressing Future Healthcare Demands and Staffing Standards
Councilor Cellona emphasized that this program is designed to ensure a consistent supply of trained doctors and align CCMC's staffing with the standards set by the Department of Health (DOH), Civil Service Commission (CSC), and Department of Budget and Management (DBM). Additionally, it aims to prevent physician burnout by distributing clinical duties more effectively among the medical staff.
A Residency Training Committee will oversee each department, handling applicant screening and performance evaluations. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including being Filipino citizens, holding a Doctor of Medicine degree, being eligible under Republic Act 1080 or as a board passer, and possessing good moral character.
Projected Patient Increase and Funding Sources
Cellona revealed that CCMC anticipates a substantial rise in patient numbers, with projections indicating a 50 to 70 percent increase over the next five years. This growth is expected to elevate the current capacity from 225 beds to approximately 700 beds, highlighting the urgent need for additional medical personnel.
The funding for these 70 new positions will be sourced from the Personnel Services budget of CCMC, ensuring financial sustainability for the program.
