The provincial government here on Thursday inaugurated a 500-bed medical center worth PHP1.6 billion in Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental.

At the launch, Governor Henry Oaminal Sr. said the Asenso Misamis Occidental Medical Center (AMOMC) is part of the province’s 97th Founding Anniversary and would provide zero-billing to patients.

“Four years ago, this was an ambitious plan, and probably some didn’t believe we could do it,” he said.

Oaminal said AMOMC has the latest equipment and facilities and offers lower rates on services and procedures.

He also said the provincial government will provide additional support for the health sector next year.

AMOMC’s opening makes it the fifth hospital under the direct supervision of the provincial government. The others were provincial hospitals in the towns of Tudela, Calamba, Jimenez, and Tangub City. (PNA)