Fire Horse’s energy to drive CSMC’s service excellence

The Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) family is drawing inspiration from the symbolic Fire Horse in continuing its mission of providing excellent medical services this year.

The Fire Horse is the zodiac animal representing the Lunar New Year that starts tomorrow in the Chinese calendar and the CSMC healthcare staff are banking on its attributes in renewing their commitment to patients. 

“Like the fire horse, let us move forward with speed, wisdom, and courage, renewing our commitment to excellence, innovation and service,” CSMC CEO and president Raul Pagdanganan told doctors, staff and guests during the hospital’s welcoming celebration of the Year of the Fire Horse held at its auditorium in Mandaluyong City on 13 February.

In Chinese tradition, the horse symbolizes strength, courage, speed and forward movement, according to Pagdanganan.

“The fire element brings passion, transformation and energy. Together, the fire horse reminds us that progress is not achieved by being standstill. It comes from bold action, loyalty of purpose, and courage to change course when needed,” he said.

CSMC vice president and chief medical officer Dr. Antonio Say said the celebration is also for family unity which is “the very foundation of our service.”

Taiwan Minister Dustin Yang Teng-shi, who graced the occasion, said the mission of the CSMC family resonates deeply with the spirit of the Lunar New Year.

Dr. Cecilio Pedro, past president of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, echoed Pagdanganan, saying the Fire Horse’s attributes of strength, energy and endurance resonate in the mission of CSMC to proactively respond to the health needs of communities it serve.

Reliving spirit of unity

CSMC and the humanitarian organization Tzu Chi Medical Foundation Philippines (TCMFP) came together to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

TCMFP operates the Tzu Chi Eye Center (TCEC), where CSMC doctors volunteer in treating poor patients with cataract and other visual impairment. Through the partnership, TCEC patients are assisted by the foundation in undergoing highly complex surgeries at CSMC using its state-of-the-art surgical equipment and premier medical care. Additionally, CSMC’s Cardiovascular Institute provides bi-monthly free clinics, essential consultations and cardiac clearances to patients of TCEC in Sta. Mesa, Manila.

Eye Center volunteers were present at the CSMC event, preparing and serving guests with traditional snacks such as tikoy, coconut macaroons, and peanuts which symbolize strong bonds, warmth and joy, longevity and good health. Its staff also taught select CSMC doctors and officials to perform the lively Chinese drum beating.