Eastern Visayas Medical Center set to expand bed capacity

TACLOBAN CITY – The Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC), the largest government-run hospital in the region, is set to expand its bed capacity from 500 to 1,500.

Dr. Joseph Michael Jaro, chief of EVMC, said they plan to have a bed capacity of up to 1,800 from 1,500 to accommodate more patients from across the region.

The EVMC is operating beyond capacity, and it has patients even from Samar Island. The planned expansion, with a budget allocation of P 800 million, aims to address this issue.

The bidding for the construction project is expected to take place in November with the new building slated to occupy approximately 8,000 square meters directly across from the existing main structure.

Completion is targeted by 2028.

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Jaro, in a press conference on Friday, Oct. 25, acknowledged potential challenges, as the proposed construction site is currently occupied by canteens and pharmacies.

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The EVMC has also secured P700 million in funding for the rehabilitation of its main building and the procurement of essential medical equipment and facilities.

Jaro highlighted the hospital’s goal of evolving into a specialty center that will offer advanced treatments, including cancer and kidney care, making EVMC a crucial healthcare provider for Eastern Visayas.