VMMC: Hospital for soldiers

MANILA, Philippines - The Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) was established in 1955 with the main purpose of providing hospitalization, medical care and treatment of Filipino soldiers who stood by the Americans during World War II.

On July 8, 1948, the 80th Congress of the United States passed Public Law 865 which provided $9.4 million assistance for the construction of a hospital facility.

Former President Elpidio Quirino and then US Ambassador Myron Cowen signed an agreement, paving the way for the construction of VMMC.

VMMC was integrated with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) in 1972. It became a medical center in 1976 and was inaugurated by former President Ferdinand Marcos.

Presidential suites

Marcos was confined at the VMMC in 1980 for treatment of lupus while former President Joseph Estrada was detained in the hospital in 2001 following his ouster. Former President Gloria-Macapagal Arroyo will be transferred to the 150-square meter, bullet proof presidential suite of the VMCC.

Source: VMMC website & STAR archives

Compiled by Charmie Joy Pagulong, STAR research