Balanga City, Bataan — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the development of the Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) into a multi-specialty hospital recently.

This comes as the President signed Republic Act 12068, which upgrades the BGHMC into a multi-specialty hospital and increases its bed capacity from 500 to 1,000. The approval of RA 12068 was posted on the Official Gazette and shared on social media on Wednesday.

Bataan Governor Joet Garcia expressed his gratitude to the President on social media, stating that this will expand the medical services offered by the BGHMC and benefit the people of Bataan.

He added that the hospital’s capabilities will increase to address various health needs of the community.

The governor also thanked his brother, Congressman Albert Garcia, who authored RA 12068 and passed it in Congress on 22 July 2024.

RA 12068 mandates the upgrade of the BGHMC’s existing health care services and facilities, increasing its specialty capabilities and bed capacity. It also aims to increase the hospital’s workforce, including doctors, nurses and support personnel.

The Department of Health secretary, in consultation with the BGHMC Medical Center chief and in coordination with the Department of Budget and Management and the Civil Service Commission, will determine the additional new positions to be created.

It will also include the implementation of RA 12068 in the Department’s program, with funding to be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

Meantime, the President brought nearly P89 million in aid to the provinces of Oriental Mindoro and Cavite on Thursday.

In Oriental Mindoro, Marcos distributed P46.14 million worth of financial assistance to farmers, fisherfolk and families affected by severe tropical storm “Kristine” and super typhoon “Leon.” Each beneficiary received P10,000 to aid them in recovery and rehabilitation.

In the province of Cavite, Marcos received a warm welcome. He was accompanied by several cabinet members including Interior Secretary and former Cavite Governor Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla.