Clark Freeport — The Clark Multi-Specialty Medical Center (CMSMC) held a topping-off ceremony for its Pediatric Building on Friday, marking the completion of the structure’s framework.

The CMSMC is a key project under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP), aiming to expand specialized healthcare access in Central and Northern Luzon.

The P1-billion facility, funded by Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. (BCFI), is the first major component of the CMSMC to reach this stage of construction. Once complete, it will offer comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services for children, including pediatric wards, diagnostic and treatment areas, and family-centered care facilities.

Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, president and CEO of Clark Development Corporation, was represented at the ceremony by CDC vice president for Engineering Services Group Engr. Teresito Tiotuyco.

He was joined by BCFI executive director Filipina Laurena, Archion Architects principal and managing partner Arch. Daniel Vicente Lichauco, Thaison Builders and Developers Inc. project manager Engr. Richard Manaog and Meinhardt Philippines Inc. vice president Engr. Alfredo Rodriguez Jr.

A topping-off ceremony traditionally signifies that a building has reached its maximum height with the placement of the final beam.

During the event, Tiotuyco expressed optimism about the building’s future contribution to healthcare in the region, stating it is more than just a healthcare facility but an important part of the community contributing to the well-being of children and their families.

Laurena stressed the project’s significance as the first of its kind nationwide under the Marcos administration’s healthcare agenda.

She also expressed gratitude to the CDC for providing the 5.2-hectare area for the multi-specialty hospital, starting with the Pediatric Center, and acknowledged project partners Archion and Thaison.

Lichauco said the pediatric building is expected to be fully completed by the fourth quarter of 2026. He noted that the CMSMC is designed to be developed in stages, with the Bloomberry Foundation Pediatric Building being the first operational unit.

BFCI, CDC, the provincial government of Pampanga, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation and the Department of Health are collaborating to provide accessible, specialized care in cardiology, oncology, pediatrics and nephrology for communities in Central and Northern Luzon.