By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez led the inauguration of the Bagong Bayaning Mandirigma (BBM) Casualty and Cancer Care Center at the V. Luna Medical Center, calling it a significant milestone in providing better healthcare for soldiers and their families.
In his message at the event, Speaker Romualdez also announced that, in the spirit of Christmas, all paying patients admitted to the V. Luna Medical Center on that day would enjoy zero billing.
“We have allotted P20 million to cover all patients’ bills today,” Romualdez said.
Emphasizing the center’s importance, Romualdez said, “Hindi lamang ospital; ito ay tahanan ng pag-asa”—a symbol of the government’s unwavering support for the country’s modern-day heroes who risk their lives to defend the nation.
“The BBM Center represents the nation’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices of our soldiers—our bayaning mandirigma—who risk their lives every day to protect our people and sovereignty,” he said.
The BBM Casualty and Cancer Care Center will provide advanced medical services, particularly for cancer patients and those requiring specialized casualty care.
He commended the Congressional Spouses Foundation, Inc. (CSFI) and the MVP Group of Companies for their partnership in bringing the BBM Casualty and Cancer Care Center project to fruition.
CSFI President, former Rep. Rosemarie Arenas, CSFI Chairperson and Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, and MVP Group of Companies Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan also attended the event.
“I assure you, you are not just in good hands but in the best of hands. You will be receiving the best—world-class medical facilities and care here at V. Luna,” Speaker Romualdez told the soldiers and patients in attendance.
“The Cancer Care and Casualty Support offered by this facility is a symbol of care for all of you. You, who risk your lives every day for the Filipino people,” he added.
In addition to inaugurating the center, Speaker Romualdez highlighted Congress’ ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of soldiers, including the recent approval of a ₱350 daily subsistence allowance (₱10,500 monthly) for soldiers under the 2025 National Budget.
“Maliit man ito kumpara sa inyong sakripisyo, ito ay unang hakbang pa lamang sa pagkilala namin sa inyong kabayanihan. Asahan ninyo na gagawin namin ang lahat upang palawakin pa ang inyong mga benepisyo,” he assured the troops.
“Hindi kayo nag-iisa sa laban na ito. Kasama ninyo ang gobyerno, kasama ninyo ang sambayanang Pilipino. You fight for us every day, and it is our duty to stand by you and your families in return.”
He concluded that the BBM Casualty and Cancer Care Center is a testament to the government’s commitment to ensuring no soldier is left behind—whether on the battlefield or in their fight for health and recovery.
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