Marcos expands hospital bed capacity nationwide

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed a series of laws expanding the bed capacities of key government hospitals across the country, significantly boosting the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.

Under Republic Act 12210, the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) will increase its capacity from 1,334 to 2,200 beds — an addition of 866 beds.

To support the expansion, PGH is mandated to upgrade its facilities and increase its workforce to meet the demands of a larger patient population.

Funding for the improvements will come from the General Appropriations Act (GAA), with the law taking effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.

Beyond the PGH, other hospitals are also set to expand.

Republic Act 12213 raises the Southern Tagalog Regional Hospital’s capacity in Bacoor City, Cavite, from 100 to 300 beds.

The law ensures the hospital’s staff and facilities are upgraded accordingly. The Department of Health, in coordination with relevant agencies, is tasked with determining staffing needs and allocating funds from the national budget.

In Mindanao, Republic Act 12212 doubles the capacity of the Wao District Hospital in Lanao del Sur from 50 to 100 beds.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao government will fund the expansion, including maintenance and staffing.