House Speaker Martin Romualdez announced the revival of the “Lungsod ng Kabataan," a program initiated by former First Lady Imelda Marcos, coinciding with the establishment of a new Philippine Children's Medical Center (PCMC).
During the "Congress at Your Service-We listen, We Deliver" town hall forum, Romualdez revealed plans are underway to construct a new 20-story PCMC building.
Two of these floors will serve as temporary shelters or halfway houses for young cancer patients and their parents from the provinces, inspired by the "City of Youth" program spearheaded by former First Lady Imelda Marcos.
Described as a "Children's Wonderland," Lungsod ng Kabataan presents a vibrant and educational environment for young patients. Upon entering the hospital, children are greeted by a captivating display of colorful murals depicting educational, cultural, and historical themes that adorn the corridors.
The House leader expressed his gratitude to Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte for allowing the removal of height restrictions on buildings in the city. This development will facilitate the construction of the new PCMC and the Philippine Cancer Center.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized that their actions reflect inclusive governance, where the needs of the people take precedence and every centavo spent contributes to the welfare of the population.
“What we are doing is all about inclusive governance. Sa Bagong Pilipinas, needs will prevail and every centavo spent will redound to the benefit of our people. Cancer patients will be a priority,” said the house speaker.
The Philippine Cancer Center, to be built in Quezon City, is envisioned as a legacy project of the Marcos Jr. administration. It will serve as a medical facility for cancer patients, a research center, and a training ground for cancer specialists focusing on areas outside Metro Manila.
Furthermore, efforts will be made to allocate adequate funds for various medical assistance programs for indigent cancer patients, such as PhilHealth's Package Z and the Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) provided by the Department of Health (DOH).
