“This is a place where faith and vision converge,” declared Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) President Dr. Arceli Rosario in her commitment message during the groundbreaking ceremony of the AUP Medical Center on January 31, 2025.

AUP marked a significant milestone by officially breaking ground for its long-anticipated teaching hospital.

In celebration of its 108th founding anniversary under the theme “God is Limitless,” the event gathered university administrators, faculty and staff, College of Medicine (COM) students, AUP Health Services personnel, and invited dignitaries, with approximately 200 attendees present to witness this occasion.

This project is the culmination of a long-held vision shared by the previous presidents of the university.

The ceremony welcomed leaders and dignitaries, including Gerardo Cajobe, chairman of the University Board of Trustees and president of the South Luzon Philippines Union Mission (SLPUM); Honorable Mario Marqueses, barangay captain of Puting Kahoy, a region in the Philippines; Honorable Police General Edward E. Carranza, municipal mayor of Silang, Cavite; Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, secretary of the Department of Health; Dr. Efren C. Laxamana, chairman of the Professional Regulatory Board of Medicine; Dr. Zenaida L. Antonio, immediate past chairperson of the Professional Regulatory Board of Medicine; Honorable Bienvenido V. Tejano, Philippine ambassador to Papua New Guinea; Atty. Mika Sollano-Santiago, representing the office of Senator Bong Go; and Architect Charren Kate Carta, representing OneMark Engineering Technologies.

A Groundbreaking Ceremony Filled with Purpose and Vision

The event emphasized the hospital’s significance in strengthening AUP’s vision of integrating faith, education, and healthcare.

Dr. Elmer Valenzona, director of AUP Health Services, referred to the project as “our shared commitment in serving humanity,” reinforcing the institution’s mission of service through healthcare.

Dr. Doris Mendoza, dean of the AUP College of Medicine, reflected on the institution’s long-standing vision, tracing its roots back to the 1950s, its realization in 2015, and its first operational year in 2016.

She proudly highlighted, “AUP is the sixth Adventist medical school, and during the pandemic, the seventh was established in Rwanda.”

Emphasizing the significance of the project, she stated that the Teaching Hospital would be “the first and only Adventist teaching hospital in the country,” fulfilling the Commission on Higher Education's (CHED) requirements for medical schools.

Carranza admired AUP’s progress, stating, “As we break ground, look how far we have come.” He assured that “the government of Silang supports AUP” and lauded the institution for its lasting impact on the community.

Previous faculty in the AUP-COM, Dr. Herbosa, highlighted the need for more healthcare facilities in the country, emphasizing the “need to triple our hospital beds.” He recognized the initiative as “a foundation of hope and mission” and assured his support, promising to help fulfill the hospital's mission. He further stressed that “this is not only constructing a building but a sanctuary of mission.”

“My wish is for a 200-bed capacity,” said Dr. Antonio, as she wished for the Teaching Hospital to expand beyond its initial 100-bed capacity.

Tejano remarked on the long-awaited realization of this vision, stating that this is a long-time dream shared by many leaders, and “our leaders are supportive, and you can see the commitment.”

Santiago added, “We look forward to seeing the positive impact this institution will bring to countless lives.”

AUP Leadership’s Commitment to the Teaching Hospital

Dr. Rosario articulated words of commitment. “I do not speak for myself alone. I speak for the board and all the stakeholders of the university." She affirmed her faith in the project. “I believe with all my heart,” she continued. Dr. Rosario reassured those involved in the project that support strengthens her resolve while challenges “keep me on my knees.” She passionately stated how words are a driving force of action. “‘Build a teaching hospital,’” she declared. “Let’s keep on saying that. The Lord spoke, and it came to be.”

“People will have a ‘yehey’ feeling. Patients will flock here. Do not be afraid because we deliver excellent care,” she extended her optimism to future patients and the community. “Closing her speech, she left a powerful statement: “We are not able, but God is able.”

Cajobe affirmed AUP’s dedication and expressed the commitment “to ensuring the proper implementation of this project.”

A Beacon of Hope for Medical Education and Healthcare

Establishing the Teaching Hospital marks a pivotal step in addressing the increasing demand for an integrated medical education and healthcare system. This facility will serve as an excellent training ground not just for future doctors but physician missionaries, equipping medical students with essential hands-on clinical experience.

Beyond medical education, the Teaching Hospital is set to serve as a beacon of hope for the surrounding communities. Committing to high-quality and accessible healthcare services, it aims to bridge gaps in medical care, particularly for underserved populations. The project is a testament to the university’s enduring mission of cultivating skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals who render whole-person care. As the AUP-COM motto says, “through Christ healing and wholeness.”

A Future Built on Faith and Dedication

The groundbreaking ceremony of the Adventist University of the Philippines-Teaching Hospital stands as a historic moment of faith, dedication, and shared commitment.

As construction begins, AUP remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence in education, healthcare, and service. This project signifies not only a building but a legacy—one that will shape the future of medical professionals and extend quality healthcare to those in need.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.