Japan-funded Grace Park Health Center opens in Caloocan

The Embassy of Japan officially turned over the newly constructed Grace Park Health Center to the Caloocan City government on 10 March 2025, as part of Japan’s ongoing support for grassroots health initiatives in the Philippines.

The turnover ceremony was attended by Japan’s Second Secretary Matsushige Tomoaki, Caloocan City Vice Mayor Karina Teh-Limsico, and other key city officials. The project was funded under Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), with a grant of $120,477 (approximately P6 million).

The original Grace Park Health Center, established in 1956, had long served the community but had deteriorated significantly, with leaks and frequent flooding making the facility unsafe and unhygienic. The newly built center aims to provide a safer and more efficient space for the 9,600 patients it serves annually.

Matsushige emphasized the strong cooperation between Japan and the local government in completing the project and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting healthcare services in the city.

Since its launch in 1989, Japan’s GGP program has funded 567 grassroots projects across the Philippines, with initiatives focused on health, education, and disaster response. The latest project underscores the long-standing partnership between Japan and the Philippines in improving public welfare and healthcare access.