Southern Philippines Medical Center

Southern Philippines Medical Center Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information in Davao City

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) at a Glance

Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) is the largest government hospital in the Philippines, serving as a critical healthcare provider and referral center for Davao City, Mindanao, and the Sulu archipelago. Established in 1917, SPMC has developed into a modern medical facility offering an array of specialized services, including institutes for children, kidney transplant, cancer treatment, and mental health. Its strategic location along JP Laurel Avenue ensures accessibility for patients and visitors, while the surrounding city offers a rich cultural backdrop. This comprehensive guide provides updated information on SPMC’s history, services, visitor policies, infrastructure, and tips for making the most of your visit (Southern Philippines Medical Center: History, Visiting Hours, and Services in Davao City, Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) Visitor Information and Medical Tourism Guide in Davao City).

History of SPMC
Visiting Hours & Patient Services
Infrastructure & Facilities
Administration & Regional Role
FAQ
Medical Tourism & Visitor Info
Things to Do Near SPMC
Cultural & Practical Tips
Plan Your Visit
References

History of SPMC

Early Years (1917–1945)

SPMC began as the Davao Public Hospital, a 25-bed facility established in 1917 on San Pedro Street. It replaced the earlier Davao Mission Hospital and quickly became indispensable to the growing population (Edge Davao). During World War II, the hospital was requisitioned by Japanese forces, leaving only the Mintal Hospital operational for military care.

Expansion and Regionalization (1946–1986)

Renamed Davao General Hospital in 1946, the institution moved to its current 12.8-hectare site on JP Laurel Avenue in 1957. In 1966, it became the Davao Regional Medical and Training Center via Republic Act 1859, designated as the main medical center for Mindanao and Sulu. It played a crucial role during regional conflicts, serving as the principal trauma center (Wikipedia).

Modernization and Specialization (1986–Present)

In 1986, the integration of the Davao Mental Hospital expanded mental health services and led to the hospital’s renaming as Davao Medical Center. The Mindanao Heart Center was added in 2007, marking a leap in cardiac care. Republic Act 9792 (2009) rebranded the facility as Southern Philippines Medical Center, boosting bed capacity to 1,200 and introducing new institutes for cancer, trauma, kidney transplant, and pediatrics (SPMC Journal, Gladan Health). By 2019, SPMC surpassed Philippine General Hospital in authorized bed capacity, and its actual capacity reached over 4,000 beds during public health emergencies like COVID-19 (Wikipedia).

Visiting Hours & Patient Services

General Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily (may vary by department or during health advisories—confirm via the SPMC website or hospital administration).
Admission: No tickets are required. Admission is based on medical needs, referrals, or emergencies. Registration and compliance with hospital protocols are mandatory upon entry.
Accessibility: SPMC offers wheelchair-accessible entrances, ramps, elevators, and ample visitor parking.

Special Events and Tours:
The hospital occasionally hosts health awareness events and community outreach programs. Public tours are rare due to operational demands, but educational visits can be coordinated with the Public Relations Office.

Infrastructure & Facilities

SPMC features a comprehensive medical complex with specialized institutes, including:

Main Building (3 floors)
Medical Arts Building (7 floors)
Central ICU Building (5 floors)
Children’s Institute (5 floors)
Kidney Transplant Institute (5 floors)
Trauma Complex (4 floors)
Institute for Women’s Health and Newborn (4 floors)
Orthopedic and Rehab Institute (4 floors)
OPD Building (4 floors)
Mindanao Heart Center (3 floors)
Cancer Institute (3 floors main, 2 floors extension)
Isolation Facility Building (2 floors)
Institute for Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine (2 floors)

These facilities enable SPMC to provide a full spectrum of care, from emergency and trauma services to advanced surgeries, cancer therapy, mental health, and organ transplantation (Gladan Health).

Administration & Regional Role

SPMC operates under the Department of Health and serves as the main public hospital for Davao City and the wider Mindanao-Sulu region. Its administrative structure includes the Chief of Hospital, Chief of Clinics, Chief Administrative Officer, and Chief Nurse (Wikipedia, Davao Portal).

FAQ

Q: What are the visiting hours at SPMC?
A: Usually 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, but confirm with the hospital for department-specific or updated schedules.

Q: Are tickets or fees required to visit?
A: No tickets are necessary. Entry is based on patient admission or visitation, with registration at the entrance.

Q: Is SPMC accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the hospital is equipped for accessibility.

Q: Are there nearby accommodations?
A: Yes, various hotels and guesthouses are located in Bajada, Lanang, and the city center.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not regularly, but educational visits can be arranged through the Public Relations Office.

Medical Tourism & Visitor Info

Access & Transportation

SPMC is located on JP Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City (SPMC official site), about 30–40 minutes from Francisco Bangoy International Airport.

Airport Transfers: Many hotels and SPMC offer transfer services.
Public Transport: Taxis, Grab, and public jeepneys are widely available. For safety and convenience, taxis and Grab are recommended (MedicalTourism.com).
Shuttle Services: Check with your hotel or SPMC for shuttle availability.

Accommodation Options

Davao City provides a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury options, with many within a 10–20 minute drive of SPMC. The five-story Pahulayan building offers affordable on-site lodging for patient companions (SunStar).

Recommended Areas: Bajada and Lanang for proximity, City Center for upscale choices.

Hospital Services

Specialty Clinics: JICA Outpatient Building houses primary and specialty clinics (SPMC DFCM).
Upcoming Centers: Bone Marrow Transplant Center—the first in Mindanao—will offer advanced treatments by 2028 (PIA).
Patient Experience: English is widely used, and international standards are being adopted for specialty services.

Tourism Considerations

Popular Procedures: Cosmetic surgery, dental care, ophthalmology, cardiology, and orthopedics. SPMC’s upcoming transplant center will provide affordable options for bone marrow procedures (PIA).
Costs & Insurance: SPMC offers lower rates than private hospitals. Payment is in Philippine pesos; check insurance compatibility in advance.
Pre-Travel Health: Consult your doctor for required vaccinations. Take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses and drink bottled water (Travel Like a Boss).

Recovery & Leisure

Davao City offers ample opportunities for relaxation and recuperation:

Museo Dabawenyo: Explore local history and culture.
People’s Park: Enjoy indigenous art and gardens.
Jack’s Ridge: Scenic views and dining.
Samal Island: Quick beach getaway for rest and leisure.

For longer stays, consider nearby nature parks or even trips to Palawan, Boracay, or Bohol (MedicalTourism.com).

Safety & Security

City Safety: Davao is considered one of the safest cities in the country. Exercise general caution—avoid isolated areas at night and use reputable transport (Travel Like a Boss).
Hospital Security: SPMC maintains robust safety protocols and security staff.

Things to Do Near SPMC

Museo Dabawenyo: Local history and culture.
People’s Park: Art and relaxation.
San Pedro Cathedral: Historic architecture.
Jack’s Ridge: Dining and panoramic views.
Samal Island: Beaches and resorts.

Cultural & Practical Tips

Hospitality: Filipinos are friendly; tipping in healthcare is not required but appreciated (MedicalTourism.com).
Language: English and Filipino are widely spoken; learning basic Cebuano phrases can be useful.
Diet: Inform the hospital or your hotel of dietary restrictions in advance.

Plan Your Visit

Check for Updates: Always confirm visiting hours and policies through SPMC’s official channels before arrival.
Stay Connected: Follow SPMC on social media and visit their website for the latest advisories and events.
Audiala App: Download the Audiala app for up-to-date guides, hospital information, and travel tips.

Contact Information

Address: Ground Floor, JICA Outpatient Building, SPMC, JP Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City, 8000, Philippines
Phone: +082 227 2731 loc 4607 / 4608
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.spmc.doh.gov.ph
Department of Family & Community Medicine: [email protected] (SPMC DFCM)

Summary: Key Visitor Tips

SPMC is an advanced, accessible healthcare hub that balances specialized clinical services with visitor-friendly policies. With its ongoing expansion, modern facilities, and integration of new specialty centers, SPMC remains a leader in regional healthcare. Visitors enjoy a safe, supportive environment, convenient accommodations, and access to Davao City’s vibrant cultural and natural attractions. Always verify current guidelines before your visit and utilize official resources like the Audiala app for seamless navigation and planning (Southern Philippines Medical Center: History, Visiting Hours, and Services in Davao City, Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) Visitor Information and Medical Tourism Guide in Davao City).