For initiating the establishment of the Philippine Heart Center (PHC) more than 50 years ago, former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos was honored on Friday by the PHC with a hospital lobby named after her and filled with artworks by national artists and a mural by renowned cardiologist-artists.
In a ceremony with Mrs Marcos as the guest of honor, the renovated lobby of the PHC Medical Arts Building (MAB) in Quezon City was named the Imelda Romualdez Marcos (IRM) Pavilion.
The lobby now features 25 paintings of national artists Jose Joya, Ang Kiukok, Cesar Legaspi, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Arturo Luz, Hernando Ruiz Ocampo, Vicente Manansala, and renowned artists Juvenal Sanso and Romulo Olazo.
PHC officials surprised Mrs Marcos with the unveiling of a mural entitled, “Our Endless Missions,” made by cardiologist Dr. William Chua together with fellow cardiologists Dr. Romeo Saavedra, and Dr. Antonio Sibulo Jr.
Mrs Marcos, who wore her signature terno in red-orange color for the occasion, expressed her gratitude for the tributes and the dedication of the IRM Pavilion.
“Natutuwa sapagkat binigyan nyo ang buhay ko ng walang katapusan kahit wala ako. Maraming, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat,” said Mrs Marcos.
PHC Executive Director Dr. Avenilo Aventura Jr. paid tribute to the former first lady as the “woman whose vision made all this possible.”
“Her legacy lives on in these very halls, and in every life touched by the healing mission of this institution,” Aventura said.
He said from its inception, the PHC was envisioned as a beacon of excellence in cardiovascular medicine, not just in the Philippines, but in Asia.
The unveiling of the IRM Pavilion was one of the events PHC lined up to mark its 50th anniversary this year.
The PHC officially opened its doors on February 14, 1975.
Mrs Marcos established the PHC in 1975 “through her initiative, determination, and unwavering advocacy for advanced and accessible healthcare,” Aventura said.
According to the PHC, the renovated lobby presents a modern, welcoming environment while preserving the hospital’s classic elegance.
“The IRM Pavilion is a relaxing space for patients, stakeholders, and personnel of the PHC from the hustle and bustle of life,” the PHC said.
In an accessible, charming space, guests can take a breather from medical consults and work up as they sit and take delight in viewing valuable pieces of art, the PHC said.
On July 2, Mrs Marcos celebrated her 96th birthday at the PHC with immediate family members, close friends, and long-time supporters at a private gathering held at the Dr. Avenilo P. Aventura Sr. Hall. | PND
