CONGRESSIONAL SPOUSES, MVP GROUP PARTNER TO SUPPORT THE WELL-BEING OF FILIPINO SOLDIERS THROUGH BBM CCCC

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — A state-of-the-art Bagong Bayaning Mandirigma Casualty and Cancer Care Center (BBM CCCC) will soon rise at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center (AFPMC).

This modern military medical facility will include a casualty and wound care wing dedicated to battle casualties and soldiers wounded in action, as well as a cancer care center for active military personnel and their dependents.

This groundbreaking project is a joint initiative between the Congressional Spouses Foundation Inc. (CSFI) – 19th Congress, led by Chairperson Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, President Rose Marie J. Arenas, and Chief Finance Officer Evelina G. Escudero, in partnership with MVP Group companies such as the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, and PLDT, all headed by Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan.

The facility’s design is benchmarked against the Makati Medical Center, with the MakatiMed Foundation spearheading its organizational development and project management. The BBM CCCC is poised to set a new standard in military healthcare.

On September 24, 2024, a Manifesto of Partnership and Support was signed by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, the CSFI 19th Congress leadership, MVP Group Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. PA, represented by Surgeon General BGen. Fatima Claire S. Navarro MC. Together, they committed to:

Establish the BBM CCCC at AFPMC;

Donate essential medical supplies and equipment to the facility; and

Implement strategic and innovative programs to ensure the health security of Filipino soldiers.

“This project is our way of honoring the brave men and women of the Armed Forces who risk their lives for our country,” said CSFI-19th Congress President Rose Marie J. Arenas. “The BBM CCCC represents our combined commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of every Filipino soldier.”

Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan added, “Through the BBM CCCC, we express our deep respect and gratitude to our soldiers. Salamat at saludo sa lahat ng mga sundalo na patuloy na naglilingkod para sa Pilipinas nating mahal (Thank you and salute to all soldiers who continue to serve our beloved nation).”

This flagship public-private partnership will unfold in two phases. The casualty and wound care wing is set for completion in November 2024, while the cancer care center will be operational by April 2025.

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