Bulacan province has inaugurated the Philippines’ first locally funded Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) facility at the Bulacan Medical Center, setting a precedent for accessible and modern diagnostics delivered by local government units (LGUs).
The new open MRI system, powered by global innovator Time Medical Systems, marks a significant step toward universal healthcare in the country by making world-class diagnostic services safer and more affordable for residents.
The initiative is a first for LGUs in the Philippines, where most of the 160 MRI units nationwide as of 2022 are privately owned. Bulacan’s project demonstrates how local governments can actively bridge healthcare gaps, aligning with the Department of Health’s national vision.
Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando said that “ideally, every tertiary-level hospital should have an MRI for diagnostics.”
“For years, people have to travel far and spend more just to get the scans they need. Now, Bulakenyos can access world-class diagnostic services right here in our province safely and affordably,” he said.
The system installed, Time Medical’s PICA Open MRI, is designed for patient comfort and practicality in provincial settings.
Its open architecture helps reduce anxiety for claustrophobic, elderly, and pediatric patients. It also uses helium-free, permanent magnet technology, making it cost-efficient low-maintenance and power-stable.
The MRI includes a built-in Teleradiology feature, a first of its kind in the Philippines. This allows radiologists to interpret scan results remotely and in real time, ensuring a faster turnaround time and expanding access to medical expertise.
Joyce Socao, chief executive and managing director of Time Medical Philippines, lauded the collaboration.
“This project shows how public-private partnership can come together for real impact. We are proud to work alongside the Government of Bulacan under the leadership of Governor Fernando in delivering advanced and affordable MRI technology to the people proving that world-class healthcare should be accessible to all,” said Socao.
The move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Memorandum Circular No. 26, which adopts the Philippine Health Facility Development Plan 2020–2040 and encourages LGUs to use public-private partnerships (PPP) to strengthen healthcare delivery.
Former Bulacan Governor and Time Medical chairman Roberto Pagdanganan expressed pride, noting that as a Bulakenyo, “I see this project as a symbol of progress, with Governor Fernando exemplifying how LGUs can embrace technology to serve their people better.”
“This partnership proves that local government and private industry can build stronger smarter and more inclusive health systems together,” said Pagdanganan.
 in the Philippines to fund and operate its own Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) facility, making advanced diagnostics accessible and affordable for its residents at the Bulacan Medical Center.){kind=link}