NUS Cares Manila Brings Hope to the Philippine General Hospital Pediatric Wards

On February 1, 2024, the NUS Alumni Network Manila (NUS Manila), through its NUS Cares initiative, donated Php 90,000 (SGD 2,000) worth of essential medical equipment to Pediatric Wards 9 and 11 of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). 

The donation, aimed at enhancing pediatric care at PGH Wards 9 and 11, included printers, suction machines, nebulizers, blood pressure apparatuses, oxygen regulators, IV poles, and pediatric stethoscopes, providing essential support for medical staff and young patients. The turnover ceremony was attended by UP President Angelo Jimenez (Public Policy '13), UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael Tee, PGH Medical Director Dr. Gerardo Legaspi, PGH Pediatrics Chair Dr. Edilberto Garcia, and NUS Manila leaders, including Chairperson Dr. Venus Oliva Cloma-Rosales (Public Health '13), Vice-Chair Patricia Villar-Yambing (Business '15), Secretary Jonas Estacio (Engineering '04), Founding Chair Richard Tan (Public Policy '13), Nestor Precioso (Science ‘06), and Boggs Tanggol (Public Policy ‘19). The event was hosted by Dr. Vivien Camacho (Public Health ‘13, UP Manila External Linkages) and PGH UHC Coordinator Dr. Aileen Espina, with Dr. Kathy Reyes (Public Policy ‘10, UP NIH Health Promotion) also in attendance, further strengthening the shared commitment of UP Manila and NUS Manila to advancing healthcare partnerships and community service.

PGH Director Dr. Legaspi emphasized that PGH, the country’s leading tertiary hospital for specialty training, trains over 3,000 medical professionals annually and is expanding to 2,200 beds, making it the largest hospital in the country. To support universal health care, PGH has broadened its primary care services for greater accessibility. While government-funded, Dr. Legaspi highlighted the vital role of private donations, such as NUS Manila’s initiative, in bridging procurement gaps and ensuring adequate medical supplies and equipment to enhance patient care.

UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Tee expressed strong interest in strengthening collaborations with NUS in clinical training, research, teaching, and academic management, citing its geographical and cultural proximity as an advantage in advancing healthcare and education.  He highlighted that being part of “NUS Manila” means embracing a role in national development, as the NUS brand represents excellence, leadership, and innovation. He encouraged NUS Manila alumni to contribute to solutions in healthcare, particularly in health financing innovations and system improvements, ultimately to increase quality of care.

University President Angelo Jimenez took the time to visit the PGH Pediatric Wards and make rounds throughout the hospital complex. In a symbolic gesture, while fulfilling his duties as UP President, he proudly donned his NUS cap—literally wearing a different hat! This moment showcased his dual identity as a leader of UP and an alumnus of NUS, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and service shared between the two institutions.

This initiative continues a tradition of service that began in 2019, reflecting the commitment of NUS Manila alumni to meaningful community impact. Through NUS Cares, alumni uphold NUS’ core values of service and excellence, working towards a healthier future for Filipino children.

For more information or to support future initiatives, contact NUS Alumni Network Manila.

Contact: Dr. Venus Oliva Cloma-Rosales at venus@u.nus.edu

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