Text by Charmaine A. Lingdas
Photos by Sarah Hazel Moces S. Pulumbarit
The University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) opened its 119th Foundation Anniversary celebration on Aug. 17, 2026, with a renewed commitment to its long-standing mission of providing quality and equitable health care to Filipinos.
Held under the theme “Kasaysayan, Kahusayan, Tungo sa Kaginhawaan,” the opening celebration brought together the PGH community in a tribute to the institution’s more than a century of service as a leading center for public health, medical education, training, and research.
The celebration began with a flag ceremony and recognition of the various sectors that keep the hospital operating, including doctors, interns, allied health professionals, nurses, nursing and ward assistants, administrative and fiscal personnel, training and research staff, contract-of-service workers, janitorial and security personnel, and other service providers. The 119th Foundation Anniversary Committee, led by Dr. Evangeline De La Fuente, was also recognized for its efforts in preparing the week-long celebration.
UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee emphasized that PGH’s contribution extends beyond the patients it directly serves. Through the health professionals trained at the institution, its knowledge and influence have reached communities across the country.
“Ang kaginhawahan na ito ay hindi lamang yung ating kaginhawahan na naidudulot sa ating mga pasyente, kundi sa mga pasyente ng ating mga kasamang tinuruan, nag-train dito sa ospital na ito at dinala nila ang kanilang dunong sa iba’t ibang sulok ng Pilipinas.”
He also underscored the importance of ensuring the hospital’s commitment to kaginhawaan, which includes its health workers. As part of the broader health system, PGH must strive for better benefits and improved working conditions for its personnel.
“Yung kaginhawahan na yan, ay dapat maramdaman natin lahat sa pamamagitan ng mas maayos na benepisyo, maayos na lugar kung saan tayo nagtatrabaho. Kaya asahan ninyo na yan ang aming pangako at gagawin namin yan hindi lamang para sa mga taga-PGH. Tayo ang modelo ng buong bansa at gagawin natin ang ating makakaya upang ito ay may sulong sa ating buong bayan. Hindi pwedeng dito matapos ang ating ginhawa,” he said, emphasizing that the gains and improvements envisioned for PGH should ultimately contribute to the advancement of health care across the country.
Representing the PGH leadership, Deputy Director for Health Operations Dr. Regina Berba congratulated the PGH community for reaching its 119th year and highlighted the Foundation Week’s wellness activities. She encouraged employees to participate in the various clubs and activities designed to promote health and well-being among the hospital community.
The anniversary celebration also recognized the resilience that has defined PGH throughout its history. Organizers noted that the institution’s story is not composed solely of achievements and milestones but also of floods, rains, crises, and other challenges that have tested its strength and shaped its capacity to serve.
A cupcake toast symbolized the community’s unity and gratitude as PGH formally opened its anniversary celebration. The activity brought together the Chancellor, hospital leadership, department and unit heads, and members of the anniversary committee in a collective celebration of 119 years of service.
The program also featured Logan De Leon Culp, Mr. Universe Philippines 2026, who shared his appreciation for PGH and its health workers. Culp spoke about the values he encountered after moving to the Philippines, particularly the Filipino commitment to family and service.
“What makes you a Filipino is your values, your love for your family, but above all, it’s your service,” Culp said, expressing his appreciation for the health workers and students serving patients at PGH.
The opening program concluded with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the PGH History Exhibit, which features stories tracing the history and transformation of the hospital’s departments and units. The exhibit invites the PGH community to revisit the institution’s rich history and the contributions of the people who have helped shape it through the years.
Through its 119th Foundation Anniversary, PGH celebrates not only the institution’s long history but also the people whose collective dedication has sustained its mission. From health professionals and researchers to nurses, administrative personnel, support staff, and service workers, each member of the PGH community contributes to the hospital’s continuing pursuit of kaginhawaan for every Filipino.
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