NORALA, South Cotabato — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato has begun the ₱75-million expansion of the Norala District Hospital (NDH), a major infrastructure investment aimed at strengthening public healthcare capacity in the province.
Construction is now in its early phase, nearly three weeks after the project’s groundbreaking, following the completion of preparatory works, including soil testing to ensure structural safety and long-term stability, according to hospital officials.
Dr. Mila Quinton, Chief of Hospital I, said the development aligns with the provincial government’s healthcare priorities under the administration of Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., which focuses on improving access to quality public health services.
“The expansion project has officially started, and we are now in the early construction phase. Ground testing has been completed to ensure that the structure will be safe and stable,” Dr. Quinton said.
The ₱75-million project includes the construction of a modern two-storey hospital building that will house an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), additional ward rooms to increase bed capacity, and upgraded clinical and support service areas. These improvements are expected to significantly enhance the hospital’s capability to manage critically ill patients and more complex medical cases within the municipality.
Dr. Quinton emphasized that the development forms part of the flagship healthcare agenda of Governor Tamayo, whose administration continues to prioritize accessible and quality public health services across the province.
“This expansion clearly reflects Governor Tamayo’s strong commitment to making healthcare a top priority,” she added.
With the addition of an ICU and expanded inpatient services, NDH is positioning itself to meet the standards set by the Department of Health (DOH) for Level II hospital classification.
Once completed, the upgraded facility is expected to decongest the hospital, speed up admissions and treatment, reduce external referrals, and elevate the overall standard of healthcare delivery for Norala and nearby communities—supporting the provincial government’s commitment to accessible and high-quality healthcare.
