DARAGA, Albay (PIA) — Residents of Albay are happy to see the construction of the Bicol Legacy Hospital resume at the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center here.
Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered the expedited progress of the project following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to complete all unfinished and ongoing government infrastructure initiatives.
“As directed by the President, we are committed to providing the necessary funding to ensure that the [Bicol Legacy Hospital] is completed by the end of 2027,” Dizon said during a recent project inspection.
Dizon acknowledged construction delays, noting that only four out of the planned 10 floors of the hospital have been finished so far.
“This is a 10-story building, and only four floors have been completed,” he said, stressing the importance of fast-tracking the remaining work.
He said that the Bicol Legacy Hospital is designed to serve not only the province of Albay but the entire Bicol region.
“This is a regional hospital so that it will benefit not just Albay but the whole Bicol region. Once completed, it will provide significant relief for the Bicol region,” Dizon added.
Albay Governor Noel Rosal, who chairs the Regional Development Council in Bicol, said that the hospital will greatly benefit local communities.
“This will be a tremendous help. It features advanced laboratories and facilities as a ten-story building,” Rosal said.
Many residents see this renewed effort as a sign of hope for improved access to quality and affordable healthcare.
Benedict Ogao, a resident of Daraga, said that the project would be a boon for families struggling to afford private hospital services.
“With more facilities and services available, we will have the opportunity to access free and more affordable medical care,” Ogao said.
Glenn Nunez from Legazpi City shared similar sentiment, noting that the expanded hospital capacity would assist families caring for elderly and chronically ill relatives.
“This project will genuinely help relatives with health issues, allowing them to receive the care they need and live longer,” he said.