CCMC still gives food despite conditions

CEBU, Philippines - Despite operating in undesirable conditions, the staff of the Cebu City Medical Center managed to share food once again with patients of the hospital, as well as to those watching over the patients.

The feeding activity yesterday was in line with the hospital’s celebration of its 53rd anniversary.

“Fourth year ni namo nga maghatag gyud mi og mga pagkaon sa among mga pasyente. Thanksgiving ni namo nila… until supplies last. Sa ward(s) manghatag mga bread gikan sa mga sponsors,” said chief nurse Lyrma Soledad.

Snacks were distributed to about 300 patients and to those watching over them.

CCMC chief of hospital Dr. Gloria Duterte said this year is the fourth year they have distributed food to the patients. She said they did not spend anything from the CCMC’s coffers since all the food was donated by sponsors, private individuals and even the hospital staff.

“Mga staff nag-prepare for the kuan (patients) mga ginagmay nga kinasing-kasing nga makalipay sa atong patients,” Soledad said.

The program was initiated by the CCMC Nursing Service Department.

Jocelyn Gallendo, who was watching over her daughter said she was happy that despite the situation at the hospital, the staff still managed to celebrate and even included them.

“Oo nalipay gyud ko kay bisan lisod ang kahimtang karon sa hospital, nakapakaon gihapon sila namo bisan panagsa,” she said.

The hospital is currently sharing a space with the Bureau of Fire Protection after its building was declared unfit for occupancy following the massive earthquake that hit Central Visayas almost a year ago.

Another patient, Jeremy Joy Pardillo, shared Gallendo’s sentiment.

“Malipayon kaayo sa ilang gihimo. Bisa’g ingon ani ang kahimtang naka-support gihapon sila namo,” she said.

Soledad assured that the hospital will do its best to provide comfort to the patients the best way it can, granting the limitations.

“Mao ra ni akong ikapasalig nga wala mo namo pasagdi, inatiman mo maayo  bisan nag-antos mo sa kaalimuot diri kalisod,” Soledad said.

Tonight, still in line with its anniversary celebration, the hospital will stage a concert entitled “One Night Only” at the grounds of the old hospital building to help raise funds for the construction of a new building. Duterte said up to 20 employees are expected to perform at the concert at 6 p.m.

“I hope you will always be with us to help us realize our dream (to construct the new CCMC),” Duterte said.

The new CMMC building is estimated to cost P1.3 billion and will be built at its original location at the corner of N. Bacalso Avenue and Panganiban Street. —Mechelle P. Florita/JMO (FREEMAN)