Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) has reported that 297 healthcare facilities built since 2021 remain non-operational, raising concerns over transparency, potential mismanagement, and the possible wastage of public funds. During a visit to Marikina City, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa inspected the Concepcion Dos Super Health Center (SHC), one of the projects that have stalled.
According to Philippines News Agency, the site in Marikina, funded with PHP21.5 million under Phase 1 of the national SHC initiative, was found to be overgrown with weeds, with only the steel foundation erected. The original DOH plans for the Marikina SHC envisaged a two-storey, medium-sized primary care facility. However, the local government expanded the plan to a four-storey structure with a rooftop, increasing the required budget to PHP180 million, bringing the total projected cost to PHP201 million when combined with the initial allocation.
DOH assessments noted that a medium-sized health center could be completed for approximately PHP12 million, prompting further examination of cost-efficiency and project oversight. Herbosa stated that the DOH will submit a complete list of the 297 idle SHCs to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) as part of its investigation into the stalled facilities. Nationwide site inspections are also being conducted to verify the construction status and compliance of each Super Health Center with national health facility standards.
In response, the Marikina city government refuted the DOH’s claim that the Concepcion Dos facility should have been completed, labeling it as ‘misleading and irresponsible.’ The local government pointed out that the PHP21.5 million released by the DOH covered only the first phase of construction, which involved foundation and structural works now completed, as certified by the DOH. The statement added that despite follow-ups, no additional funding for subsequent phases has been released by the DOH.
The Marikina LGU attributed the delay to the DOH’s failure to provide complete project funding and stated that the city has decided to continue the project using local funds to ensure quality healthcare facilities for its residents. The city also highlighted its collaboration with the DOH, noting that lands used for DOH facilities, such as the Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center, are owned by Marikina and provided free of charge.
The Marikina city government concluded its statement by emphasizing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and genuine public service, rejecting any form of excuses or misinformation.