Underscoring on innovative and compassionate healthcare, Saint Louis University Sacred Heart Medical Center (SLU SHMC), led by University President Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, held the official opening and blessing ceremony of the SLU SHMC- Philippine Oncology Center Corporation (SLU SHMC POCC) Cancer Center on 16 January 2025.
The ceremony was conducted alongside officials and representatives from the University, local government, and concerned line agencies of the government.
This state-of-the-art Cancer Center facility, designed to enhance cancer care, features advanced treatment technologies including a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) for precise radiation therapy.
Led by Dr. Sherwin L. Cala, Clinical Director of the Cancer Center, the POCC welcomed its first patient on 7 January 2025 and since then began offering its services. Among the members of the cancer care team are Norberto A. Abella Jr., Certified Medical Physicist; Raquel Irene F. Santacera, Clinical Operations Manager; and Ma. Carmelita L. Ramota, Administrator. Included in the team are certified medical physicists, radiation oncologists, radiation therapy technologists, a radiation therapy nurse, and administration staff.
POCC is the first stand-alone radiation treatment center in the Philippines regulated by the Department of Health and by the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI). Accredited by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCS), POCC is the first to offer Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) in the country.
In his opening remarks, Fr. Sales expressed optimism that the advanced cancer facility will equate to “innovative and more effective treatment” of cancer and other related diseases. As he thanked various stakeholders who made the project possible, he noted, “Healthcare is not about technology, it is about people who will benefit from it and the medical practitioners who will use it to improve the lives of others.”
In response, Coun. Isabelo Cosalan, representing Mayor Benjamin Magalong, thanked SLU for the valuable project as the Center is a “facility that represents hope, faith, and commitment to health.” He added that Baguio City “is not only a hub for education and tourism, but a center for health care innovation and services.”
Dr. Virginia Narciso, MPH, Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH CAR) Local Health and Services Division (LHSD) Chief, representing the DOH Cordillera Regional Director, Dr. Ferdinand M. Benbenen noted that the opening of the center marks “a renewal or our collective commitment to improving the lives of cancer patients and their families.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Paul Adlai Quitiquit, SHMC Hospital Administrator stated that the facility represents hope and said, “Together, we will work together towards a world where cancer is not a life-threatening condition, but a manageable one.”
Cong. Mark Go, as a member of the SLU Board of Trustees, expressed full support on the project affirming that this feat is part of the overall thrust of the University.
Additionally, Philhealth Regional Vice President Dra. Domingo A. Gadgad said that the POCC is a milestone that resonates deeply with the shared mission and vision of Philhealth – a nation where every Filipino has access to Universal Health Coverage. “This center is a testament to that commitment, a tangible step towards realizing a healthcare system that truly cares for every Filipino, especially during their most challenging times. Cancer, as we know, is not just a medical condition. It is a life-changing journey that requires courage, compassion, and collaboration…This center is more than just a facility. It is a symbol of hope and healing,” Dra. Gadgad stated.
Adhering to the Mission Statement of SLU SHMC-POCC, SLU continues to stand as the “Center of Choice” for education and for healthcare, fostering a community where innovation and compassion converge to enhance the well-being of all.
