The Friends of Philippine General Hospital (FPGH) is set to hold its fourth annual charity golf tournament on Oct. 25 at the Canlubang Golf and Country Club in Laguna, aiming to raise funds for the construction of a “Healing Garden” to support cancer patients undergoing treatment at the Philippine General Hospital.
The Healing Garden, which will be located in front of PGH’s Cancer Institute, is envisioned to provide a peaceful sanctuary for patients, visitors, healthcare workers and students.
“It will be a place of respite, where families can come together and find peace during difficult times,” said PGH executive director Dr. Gap Legaspi, who also expressed hopes that the 200-square-meter green space will foster wellness and healing among its visitors.
“Private organizations like the FPGH play a crucial role in jumpstarting projects that might otherwise face bureaucratic delays,” added Dr. Legaspi. “But, of course, the government continues to provide the bulk of patient support, ensuring that treatment remains free.”
FPGH and other charitable groups have been instrumental in helping PGH renovate wards, clinics and recreational areas, particularly for pediatric patients. Previous projects include the repainting of children’s wards with Disney characters and securing funds for medication.
The PGH Cancer Institute, originally built in 1938 to accommodate 40 patients, now cares for 400 at any given time, with nearly half of them being children under 18, many of whom suffer from leukemia and brain tumors.
Cancer has become the second leading cause of death in the Philippines, with breast and lung cancers being the most prevalent among adults.
Since assuming leadership of PGH in 2013, Dr. Legaspi has seen a 30 percent increase in cancer patients. He attributes this to the hospital’s strong pediatric oncology department, which provides life-saving services to indigent patients.
Lita Salvador, president of the FPGH, highlighted the organization’s longstanding commitment to supporting PGH.
“For 40 years, we’ve been providing medical services, diagnostic tests and treatments for the hospital’s indigent patients. We’ve also helped acquire essential medical equipment,” she said.
FPGH vice president Lois Villanueva added that the new Healing Garden will feature a covered waiting area for cancer patients and their caregivers, replacing the current makeshift shelter at the hospital entrance.
Volunteer Renee Francisco encouraged participation in the upcoming event, noting that individuals and companies can contribute by becoming sponsors, donating raffle prizes or cash, or playing in the tournament.
