Philippine Cancer Center breaks ground in Quezon City

A groundbreaking ceremony for the 20-story Philippine Cancer Center was held in Quezon City on Friday.

The event was attended by Speaker Martin Romualdez, Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan, several local officials, and other lawmakers.

The PCC, which will be built on a 5,000-square meter lot inside the Blood Bank Complex in Quezon City, will serve as a comprehensive center for cancer diagnosis, treatment, research, and patient support.

According to Romualdez, each floor will house a cancer sub-specialty center focusing on various types such as hepatic, renal, gastrointestinal, lung, breast, women's reproductive organs, skin, and even rare cancers.

Apart from treating cancer patients, Romualdez said the PCC will also become a training center and dormitory for doctors from far-flung areas.

A sleeping quarter for the relatives of cancer patients will also be constructed inside the PCC.

Romualdez also mentioned the House of Representatives' allocation of budget for critical services and fixed assets in the PCC, such as LINAC, PET scans, hybrid operating rooms, CyberKnife, proton therapy, and equipment for highly specialized radiotherapy and surgery procedures.

"Our aim is to transform cancer from a death sentence into a manageable condition that, when detected and treated early, can be overcome. We want to ensure strategic alignment with national cancer control plans, make treatment more equitable, affordable, and accessible, and improve the overall experience of cancer care for patients and their families," he said.

The construction of the PCC is in line with the implementation of Republic Act 11215 or the National Integrated Cancer Control Act, which was signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2019.

The PCC will be under the control and supervision of the Department of Health and will be headed by an executive director. —VBL, GMA Integrated News