Magalong flags alleged ‘ghost projects,’ overpricing at DOH

BAGUIO CITY — After flagging anomalous government infrastructure projects, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has turned his attention to the Department of Health, accusing the agency of alleged irregular practices.

Magalong claimed that “ghost projects” exist within the department and called for greater accountability in the management of medical resources and health infrastructure.

According to the mayor, there are persistent delays in the delivery of medical supplies from the DOH to the Baguio local government unit. He also noted that a significant portion of the supplies received are nearing their expiration dates, limiting the city’s ability to use them effectively.

Magalong further raised concerns over the procurement of medical equipment, urging an investigation into the suspected overpricing of specialized machines such as endoscopy and CT scan units at DOH-managed facilities, including the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center.

He also criticized the slow progress of building construction at the hospital, alleging that the workmanship appears to be substandard. Magalong said he is concerned about the welfare of both health workers and patients, noting that they bear the brunt of these administrative shortcomings.

Earlier, the mayor refuted statements made by DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa regarding guarantee letters. While Herbosa had said such letters are no longer required at DOH hospitals, Magalong clarified that the Baguio LGU continues to issue guarantee letters to BGHMC to ensure uninterrupted patient services.