Business

PAGCOR, AFPMC UNVEIL PHP53.22-M DORM FOR PATIENTS’ WATCHERS

Monday, January 27, 2025

PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco and AFP Medical Center Commander Brigadier General Jonna Dalaguit unveil the marker for the new AFP Medical Center Patient Watchers’ Dormitory in Quezon City.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Medical Center inaugurated on Friday, January 24, a new halfway house for families and caregivers of patients at V. Luna Medical Center (VLMC) in Quezon City.

Brigadier General Jonna Dalaguit, Commander of the AFP Medical Center, receives the symbolic key for the newly constructed AFP Medical Center Patient Watchers’ Dormitory from Chairman Tengco. The project received Php 53.22 million funding from PAGCOR.

The five-story watchers’ dormitory, which received a Php53.22 million funding from PAGCOR, features 35 rooms and 124 beds. It is equipped with kitchens, dining areas, caregiver quarters, and other amenities to provide a comfortable haven for families of confined patients.

The new AFP Medical Center Patient Watchers’ Dormitory features 35 rooms with 124 beds. It is also equipped with kitchens, dining areas, caregiver quarters and other amenities, offering a comfortable haven for the families of hospitalized patients.

PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, who led the inauguration, said the project is a demonstration of the state gaming agency’s unwavering support for the country’s armed personnel.

“This is not just a corporate social responsibility initiative for PAGCOR; it is a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to our brave soldiers who selflessly dedicate their lives to serving our nation,” Mr. Tengco said.

PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco (2nd from right, front row) and AFP Medical Center Commander Brigadier General Jonna Dalaguit (3rd from right, front row) lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new AFP Medical Center Patient Watchers’ Dormitory in Quezon City. They were joined by key officials from PAGCOR and the AFP.

PAGCOR and AFP officials gather for a photo opportunity during the inauguration of the AFP Medical Center Patient Watchers’ Dormitory on Friday, January 24.

“As we gather today, let us take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform who face unimaginable challenges to safeguard our freedoms and ensure the safety of our communities,” he added.

Prior to the dormitory’s construction, the AFP Medical Center could only offer a single-story resting area with limited ventilation for watchers, according to AFP Medical Center Commander Brigadier General Jonna D. Dalaguit.

“The physical and emotional toll of prolonged hospital stays had always been a significant challenge for caregivers,” Dalaguit said. “Without adequate facilities, many watchers face the risk of developing physical or mental health issues, adding to their already heavy burden.”

With the inauguration of the new dormitory, Dalaguit highlighted the meaningful impact of the collaboration between PAGCOR and the AFP.

“Today marks the end of a long wait,” she said.

“This facility is not just a product of cooperation between PAGCOR and the AFP, but also a source of inspiration. It serves as a reminder that the people and institutions we protect are also our sources of strength and support,” she said.