Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona shared that the vision of establishing a hospital at MSU-Maguindanao emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic when the university initially served as a vaccination center. The success of this initiative led to discussions about the need for a hospital, involving the Department of Health (DOH), the Ministry of Health (MOH)-BARMM, and other agencies. “Alhamdullilah for this day, alhamdullilah sa mga kasamahan natin ngayon. We look forward to working with you and discussing the future of MSU-Maguindanao, especially in terms of offering medical-related courses,” she concluded.

MP Atty. Sittie Fahanie S. Uy-Oyod expressed the Parliament and Committee on Health’s commitment to passing bills to establish more hospitals for the Bangsamoro. She noted, “This groundbreaking ceremony represents a major step forward in enhancing community infrastructure and demonstrates a strong commitment to improving health services. This project is not just about expanding facilities; it embodies our shared vision of advancing healthcare access and quality for everyone.”

MOH Minister Kadil M. Sinolinding Jr., represented by HFDP Chief Engr. Emran Bansilan, relayed that the initiative will not only enhance primary care services but also lead to the establishment of health-related courses at MSU-Maguindanao.

IPHO Maguindanao Chief Dr. Mohammad Ariff A. Baguindali, represented by Ms. Mardy Sinarimbo, RN, MAN, stated that the facility will serve students, faculty, staff, and local communities, helping to ease the patient load at other hospitals. “Let us continue to work together towards a healthier and more inclusive future,” she added. Furthermore, Dr. Baguindali pledged full support in terms of personnel and referrals to higher institutions for specialists or complex cases.

MP Froilyn T. Mendoza, represented by Dr. Ben Bello, commended the Phase II development of the MSU-Maguindanao Infirmary as a demonstration of the university’s commitment to its vision, mission, and goals. He noted that the Committee on Health’s mandate includes addressing public health issues, medical facilities, quarantine services, and related policies impacting national, social, and economic conditions.

The Phase II expansion is designed to create a responsive healthcare environment, with plans to include at least 25 beds, emergency room equipment, a dental clinic, a pharmacy, a medical laboratory, an X-ray room, delivery rooms, doctors’ clinics, and both private and semi-private rooms.

Also present were MP Marjanie S. Macasalong (represented by BYC Commissioner Naserudin D. Dunding), IPHO Maguindanao’s Dr. Coco Digal, Head of the Family and Community Medicine; Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Hospital Chief Dr. Bai Deevah Eileen Samama-Sinsuat (represented by Dr. Airah M. Embang), Ms. Teodora T. Kasan, RN, MAN, Ms. Antonette M. Abo, RN, University Physician Dr. Firkhan D. Estrella, VCAF Madame Angelita T. Datucan; Deans, faculty members; Physical Plant Division Personnel, SSC officers, student leaders, and staff.