FIRST Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa proudly led the formal inauguration of the Ilocos Sur Medical Center (ISMC), the newest second-level public hospital located in Candon City, yesterday, August 12, 2025, marking a significant milestone in improving access to specialized medical services for communities in the region.
The newly established facility is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, operating theaters, and specialized wards to cater to patients who require more comprehensive care than what primary-level facilities can provide. As a second-level hospital, it will offer specialized services in internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, and other essential medical fields.
“This hospital reflects our commitment to bring quality healthcare closer to every Filipino,” Herbosa said. “By establishing more health facilities in the provinces, we aim to reduce travel time, decongest major hospitals, and ensure that patients receive timely, expert care.”
Strategically located at Heroes By-pass Road in Candon City, the 200-bed capacity hospital under the DOH will serve as a vital referral center for nearby primary healthcare units and will be manned by trained medical professionals and specialists. The facility also features modern equipment, an expanded emergency room, and improved patient wards to meet the growing demand for healthcare services.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by DOH officials, local government leaders, health workers, and community stakeholders. The event highlighted the shared commitment of both the national government and local authorities to strengthen the country’s healthcare delivery system.
Two additional buildings were also opened to serve the public: the Dialysis Center and the Infection Control building.
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco encouraged the community to take advantage of the services offered and assured continued efforts to upgrade facilities and capabilities in Ilocos Region.
“Ang access sa serbisyong pangkalusugan ay karapatan ng bawat Pilipino anuman ang estado sa buhay. Kaya’t sinisiguro ng DOH na walang sektor ang maiiwan kabilang ang mga mahihirap, PWDs, senior citizens, indigenous peoples, atbp. sa pagtanggap ng benepisyo,” she emphasized.
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