Expanding Access to Quality Healthcare
BACOLOD - continues to prioritize healthcare by implementing programs and infrastructure projects that aim to improve medical services for its growing population. During his State of the District Address, Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez emphasized that a truly progressive city is one where families can confidently face health emergencies without worrying about access to medical care. One of the city's flagship initiatives is the Bacolod Comprehensive Healthcare Program (BacCHP), which was introduced during his term as mayor and has since become one of the country's pioneering healthcare systems integrating both public and private hospitals. The program reflects Bacolod's long-term vision of making healthcare accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of every resident.
Comprehensive Programs That Put Patients First
The BacCHP provides members with a wide range of healthcare benefits, including free annual preventive checkups, medical consultations, maintenance medicines, hospital assistance of up to PHP15,000, and no-deposit hospital admissions. As of June 2026, the program has grown to serve 155,952 registered members and has already provided nearly PHP147.85 million in hospital assistance, demonstrating its significant impact on local families. Building on this success, Representative Benitez has also proposed the Zero Balance Billing Bill, which seeks to strengthen coordination among the Department of Health, PhilHealth, local government hospitals, and private healthcare institutions. If enacted, the measure would help ensure that eligible patients receive medical treatment without additional financial burden, further expanding access to quality healthcare nationwide.
Investing in Modern Medical Facilities
Alongside healthcare programs, Bacolod is making substantial investments in new medical infrastructure to meet the city's growing healthcare demands. Mayor Greg Gasataya announced that the national government has allocated PHP930 million for the construction of the 127-bed Bacolod City General Hospital in Barangay Vista Alegre, with the first three phases already completed and the remaining phases progressing toward implementation. Additional projects include the Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (BUCAS) Plus Center, which will provide expanded outpatient and minor admission services in partnership with the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, as well as the Bacolod City Health Complex, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. These facilities will significantly improve healthcare capacity and bring essential medical services closer to local communities.
Building a Healthier and More Resilient Bacolod
The city's continued investment in healthcare demonstrates its commitment to improving the overall well-being of its residents while preparing for future healthcare challenges. Modern hospitals, expanded medical programs, and stronger partnerships between government and private healthcare providers contribute to a more resilient healthcare system capable of serving Bacolod's growing population. These initiatives also support the city's broader vision of becoming a highly livable and sustainable urban center where quality healthcare is available to everyone regardless of economic status. As these projects continue to move forward, Bacolod is steadily establishing itself as one of the leading cities in the Philippines in delivering accessible, patient-centered, and future-ready healthcare services.
