Press Release
August 17, 2007

Villar: PGH on its way to becoming a world-class university hospital

On the occasion of the centennial founding anniversary of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), Senate President Manny Villar today congratulated the officers and staff of the country's premier government hospital for their achievement in the past 100 years as he also urged them to enhance its reputation in providing quality and affordable healthcare to the people.

"Health care must be more efficient, effective, accessible and affordable. By setting this benchmark, I am positive that you are on your way to becoming one of the best national university hospitals in Asia and the world," Villar told PGH officials, University of the Philippines professors, doctors, hospital staff and patients who trooped to the hospital atrium despite the pouring rain.

Villar was the Guest of Honor during the culminating activity celebrating PGH's centennial founding anniversary. The ceremony was attended by Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, UP President Emerlinda Roman, PGH Director Carmelo Alfiler, and members of the UP Board of Regents.

"What PGH has done for the nation through medical care services made available to so many Filipinos in a span of 100 years is a matter of public record and knowledge," said Villar, who was named Most Distinguished UP Alumnus in 2004.

Villar added that the centennial theme, "100 Years of Excellence and Leadership in Quality Healthcare for the Filipino" mirrors not only their collective aim to become a world-class health facility catering to the underprivileged, but also their individual commitment to be role models in the medical profession.

"My short message today is premised on the value of building trust to further enhance your reputation as a premier government health care institution. Your institution's success or downfall depends on its people," he said.

Villar also lauded the PGH administration for conducting staff development and training programs to sustain their leadership and pioneering role among public hospitals in the Philippines. He said investing in employee career advancement can result in more satisfied and experienced employees, wider opportunities and an improved environment that promotes innovation.

"This culture will undoubtedly make you more responsive, adaptive and efficient in this globalizing era," he added.

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