Jimenez, Misamis Occidental — A historic milestone was celebrated as the Jimenez Medicare Community Hospital (JMCH) marked its 52nd Founding Anniversary on November 19. For over five decades, the hospital has been a beacon of hope, healing, and service, fulfilling its mission of providing quality healthcare to the communities of Jimenez and beyond.

In his welcome address, OIC-Chief of the Hospital Dr. Rommer V. Destura emphasized that the occasion was not only a celebration of the institution’s founding but also an opportunity to honor the dedication, resilience, and teamwork that have established it as a cornerstone of healthcare in Misamis Occidental.

“The Jimenez Medicare Community Hospital stands proud, with a clear vision and purpose to become a Level 1 healthcare institution in the province,” Dr. Destura said. “We are committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that adds value and enhances lives. Our work goes beyond healing. By prioritizing health, we are building a future where a healthy Misamisnon contributes to a peaceful, prosperous, and joyful Misamisnon.”

Dr. Destura also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the hospital staff, stating, “Thank you for your dedication and hard work. You are the heart of this institution.”

Meanwhile, Governor Henry Oaminal graced the celebration and congratulated the hospital’s team for their outstanding commitment to healthcare excellence. “Your tireless efforts and unwavering dedication have brought us to this remarkable point,” he said, highlighting the hospital’s incredible transformation from a modest healthcare facility to a trusted institution that now serves thousands of families across the province.

One of the major highlights of the anniversary celebration was the recognition of the hospital’s impressive financial growth over the past two years. Governor Oaminal revealed that JMCH’s income surged from ₱3,455,557.41 in 2022 to ₱15,077,439.59 in 2023. As of October 2024, the hospital had already generated ₱29,913,585.67 — a remarkable 336% increase in just two years.

“This achievement is a testament to your shared mission of prioritizing the health and welfare of our people. Congratulations to each of you,” Governor Oaminal said, commending the leadership, doctors, nurses, and staff who contributed to this success.

The Governor also praised the courage and resilience of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Despite limited resources and the immense toll, you stood on the frontlines to protect and care for our kababayans. For that, we are forever grateful,” he said.

Governor Oaminal reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system in Misamis Occidental, pledging to improve hospital facilities, ensure a steady supply of medical resources, and increase accessibility to healthcare, particularly for underserved communities. He called on everyone to embrace the collective responsibility of building a healthier and more resilient community. “While challenges persist, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the highest quality of care for all,” he urged.

In recognition of their dedication, Governor Oaminal also surprised special gifts to the medical staff of Jimenez Medicare Community Hospital.

The event concluded with a sense of hope and gratitude, celebrating both the hospital’s legacy and its bright future. “May this institution continue to grow, innovate, and inspire as a pillar of hope and healing in our province,” Governor Oaminal said.

As the Jimenez Medicare Community Hospital commemorates its 52nd anniversary, it stands as a powerful testament to the transformative impact of dedicated healthcare professionals and a united community working together to build a healthier Misamis Occidental. (SN/PGMO)