Reaching New Heights: PHMC Celebrates Topping-Off Milestone

Reaching New Heights: PHMC Celebrates Topping-Off Milestone

August 6, 2023 – A Milestone Etched in Concrete and Vision

Written by:

Raul L. Lapitan, MD

(@Closer.MD)

In a momentous stride toward the future of healthcare in the region, Prime Hospital & Medical Center (PHMC) celebrated its Topping-Off Ceremony on August 6, 2023, marking the structural completion of the hospital's highest floor. The event signified a remarkable milestone in PHMC’s journey toward becoming a beacon of excellence in patient care.

Held at the construction site of what will soon be a modern, fully-equipped medical facility, the ceremony was graced by key leaders and stakeholders. Leading the event were Col. Agustin Zozobrado, President & Chief Executive Officer, and Dr. Cesar Tongo, Chairman of the Board. Their presence, along with the collective support of PHMC’s leadership, underscored the unity of purpose and dedication to the hospital’s mission.

Also in attendance were members of the Board of Directors, the Construction Committee, the executive team, and representatives from JEIKA Properties Corporation, the project's developer, owned and led by Engr. Simplicio R. Yutero, Jr.

The Topping-Off—a traditional rite in construction—symbolizes the completion of the building’s vertical structure. As the final concrete was poured, it embodied the culmination of months of hard work, strategic planning, and collaborative effort. Yet, as emphasized during the event, this milestone was not just about construction; it was about laying the final beam atop a dream built on compassion, integrity, and service.

In his speech, Col. Zozobrado remarked:

“This is more than just the topping-off of a building—it is the realization of a shared dream, the promise of a future where every patient is treated with dignity, every life is valued, and every service rendered with excellence.”

Dr. Tongo, for his part, highlighted the collective strength of the institution:

“We have reached this height because we stand on the shoulders of dedicated individuals—visionaries, healthcare professionals, architects, engineers, and partners—who believe in a future where healthcare is accessible, compassionate, and first-rate.”

Distinguished guests and key officers in attendance included:

Dr. Evangeline Y. Zozobrado, Corporate Secretary

Dr. Esmeralda V. Dela Rosa, Corporate Treasurer

Dr. Roberto M. De Leon, Management Consultant

Dr. Jane C. Panaligan, Hospital Administrator

Dr. Raul L. Lapitan, Medical Director

Dr. Kristofrank Bryant D. Pioquinto, Chairman, Construction Committee

Ms. Joy C. Luna, RPh., Marketing Director

Mr. Winston C. Co, MBA, Chief Finance Officer

Dr. Florentina U. Ty, Board Member

Dr. Agnes V. Barrientos, Board Member

Dr. Jose P. Santiago Jr., Board Member

Arch. Alexander R. Balce, Board Member

Dr. Maria Eulenia R. Nolasco, Board Member

Ms. Jo-Anne B. Yatco, RN, Assistant Corporate Secretary

A special tribute was given to JEIKA Properties Corporation, whose commitment to structural integrity and architectural excellence has been pivotal to the project’s timely progress. Under the leadership of Engr. Simplicio R. Yutero, Jr., JEIKA’s team has exemplified professionalism and precision.

The event concluded with a ceremonial blessing of the building, a toast among stakeholders, and a shared moment of pride and optimism. As the hospital structure now stands tall against the skyline, it also stands as a testament to the power of shared vision and purpose.

With this milestone achieved, Prime Hospital & Medical Center looks forward with confidence to the completion of its next chapters. Poised to open its doors in the near future, PHMC is committed to delivering compassionate, cutting-edge, and patient-centered care to the community it serves.

Prime Hospital & Medical Center: 

“Your Health, Our Prime Commitment”.