New VMMC wing seen
PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said the agency approved the grant from the casino foundations because of the project’s noble objective
The Veterans Memorial Medical Center will soon have more patient rooms with the start of construction for the Magiting Veterans Wing through a P60-million grant from two licensees of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.
The construction of the new wing was initiated by the Philippine Military Academy Magiting Class of 1970 with funding support from Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. and Newport World Resorts Foundation Inc.
The two foundations, representing Solaire Resort and Newport World Resorts, respectively, each released P30 million with PAGCOR's approval.
Officials said that the project will be carried out in two phases — the first will be sponsored by BCFI and covers civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, masonry works and roof deck waterproofing while the second phase will be funded by NWRFI and consists of works, fixtures and devices.
The Magiting Wing will have a total floor area of 1,379.84 square meters and will house 12 new private rooms inclusive of four suites, a nurse station, lounge area, hallway, storage, access ramp and connecting bridge to the main hospital building.
PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said the agency approved the grant from the casino foundations because of the project's noble objective.
"PAGCOR recognizes the patriotism and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who dedicated their youth, vigor, strength and even lives for our country. By supporting this noble project, we show our gratitude to our modern-day heroes and their families," Tengco said.
He added that all integrated resort casino licensees in the country are required to put up a foundation to fund Corporate Social Responsibility programs on education infrastructure, health facilities, environmental preservation and cultural heritage restoration.
Two percent of the licensees' gross gaming revenues from non-junket tables automatically go to such foundations.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, who graced the ceremonial concrete pouring for the project, expressed gratitude to the project supporters.