Health authorities in the Central Visayas region have announced the closure of seven public health facilities for three months, starting October 31, 2026. The decision comes as part of a routine maintenance and upgrade program aimed at improving service quality and infrastructure. The affected facilities include three hospitals and four clinics spread across the region.

The closure will impact patient access to essential health services during the period, with officials advising the public to plan ahead and seek alternative care. No emergency services will be disrupted, as backup arrangements have been made. The Department of Health (DOH) has emphasized that the maintenance work is critical to ensuring long-term operational efficiency and safety.

This initiative follows a similar program implemented in 2024, which saw the temporary closure of five health centers in the same region. At that time, the DOH reported improved infrastructure and better service delivery after the upgrades. The current project is expected to follow a similar path, with completion anticipated by early 2027. The maintenance work will focus on upgrading medical equipment, improving sanitation, and reinforcing building structures.