The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) has officially commenced construction on its 16-story pediatric and adult specialty center, a flagship project aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to strengthening the country’s healthcare system and expanding access to specialized medical services.

In a Palace press briefing on Friday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Press Officer Claire Castro highlighted the significance of the project, noting that it is a testament to the Marcos administration’s dedication to quality public healthcare for all Filipinos.

“Ang specialty center na ito ay simbolo ng pagpapahalaga ng pamahalaan sa paghahatid ng quality public healthcare sa sambayanan,” Castro said.

The groundbreaking ceremony held on June 25 was led by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, underscoring the national importance of the initiative.

The state-of-the-art facility will include 450 hospital beds, modern pediatric emergency and operating rooms, intensive care units, and comprehensive outpatient clinics.

The first phase of the project is estimated to cost PhP675.5 million, with full completion expected by 2027.

In a video played during the briefing, UP President Angelo Jimenez emphasized the significance and the long-term impact of the project.

“This is more than just a building. It is a promise that no Filipino should be left behind when it comes to healthcare,” Jimenez said.

“It is an investment in our people, in the dignity, in the future of public health in the country,” Jimenez said.

President Marcos has earlier pledged to establish 179 specialty centers nationwide by the end of his term in 2028, as part of a broader effort to modernize and decentralize healthcare services across the country. | PND