By Rachel Magday
BAGABAG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines — A P6-million rehabilitation project funded under the Department of Health’s Health Facilities Enhancement Program(HFEP) is set to begin at the Bagabag District Hospital to restore critical services and repair facilities damaged by Typhoon Uwan last year.
Bagabag District Hospital is headed by Chief of Hospital Dr. Jocelyn S. Bumidang and is one of six district hospitals operated by the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya.
Ma. Cristina S. Opena, administrative officer of Bagabag District Hospital, said a team from the Department of Health Regional Office 2 conducted a site inspection on May 8 to assess the extent of the damage and validate the proposed repairs.
The DOH HFEP team was composed of engineers Jay R. Tatto, Jones Pascual Jr. and Frank Ivan Santos. They were joined by engineers from the Provincial Engineering Office, led by Architect Audry Mae C. Dominguez.
Dominguez said the inspection was conducted to evaluate the hospital’s condition, validate storm-related damage and finalize the list of repairs and improvements needed for the facility.
Areas identified for immediate rehabilitation include the ward, laundry and dietary building, emergency room, laboratory and X-ray building, and cadaver holding area.
Dominguez said the project will cover the repair of damaged structural and architectural components, repainting of affected interior and exterior areas, and upgrading of electrical systems and fixtures to meet safety and operational standards.
Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito, who recently inspected the Bagabag District Hospital, expressed his gratitude to the Department of Health for the P6-million allocation intended for the facility’s rehabilitation.
He said the funding will help fast-track the hospital’s recovery from typhoon damage, restore vital health services, and ensure the continued delivery of safe and responsive medical care to residents of Bagabag and nearby communities.
