A Gift of Unity and Hope for Eastern Samar: Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital Officially Opens in Guiuan

• Thirteen years after Typhoon Yolanda, Eastern Samar marked a milestone on October 7, 2026, as the Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital opened in Guiuan, bringing accessible, quality healthcare to the district.

Beejay Balagbis 24 hours ago 1.8 K

Posted on October 14, 2026 at 7:24 am

Guiuan, Eastern Samar — Thirteen years after Typhoon Yolanda swept across their shores, the people of Eastern Samar marked a historic milestone on October 7, 2026, as the Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital (FAMH) was formally opened at Barangay 9A, Guiuan—ushering in a new era of accessible, quality healthcare for the district.

The momentous occasion featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, the blessing of state-of-the-art facilities, and the unveiling of official markers, all made possible through the shared commitment of the Korean government via the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar, and the national government through former Senator Sonny Angara.

In his keynote address, Governor RV Evardone centered the people of Eastern Samar as the true heart of this achievement.

“This hospital belongs not to the provincial government alone – it is an achievement of every Estehanon,” Gov. Evardone declared. “FAMH is more than a building; it is a living testament to our community, our resilience, and our togetherness.”

He called on all sectors to remain united in advancing the welfare of Eastern Samar, expressing deep gratitude to KOICA and former Sen. Angara for their enduring partnership. The Governor also paid special tribute to Cecilia Cagus Storm, who generously provided the land for the hospital’s transitional site, and the Bernardo family, who donated the property where the new facility now stands.

As the district’s only Level 1 hospital, FAMH will serve two local health zones, bringing comprehensive medical care within reach for Guiuan residents and neighboring towns — ending the burden of long, difficult journeys to seek treatment. It will also strengthen the regional healthcare network by serving as a referral hub for smaller health units, while training programs will build lasting expertise among local medical workers.

Gov. Evardone noted that the next chapter demands shared dedication: ensuring consistent staffing and sustainable operations so FAMH fully delivers on its promise to serve the people.

Joining the celebration were KOICA Country Director Jung Youngsun, Hyundai Asan Project Manager Kim Min Kyu, Department of Health Region 8 Director Dr. Exuperia B. Sabalberino, Board Member Paul Gonzales representing Congresswoman Sheen Gonzales, former Governor Ben Evardone, Vice Governor Maricar Sison-Goteesan, Guiuan Mayor Annaliza Gonzales-Kwan, alongside provincial and municipal officials.