The charitable arms of Philippines IRs Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Newport World Resorts have donated a combined Php60 million (US$1.05 million) to aid with the construction of more patient rooms at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Manila.
According to gaming regulator PAGCOR, the new Magiting Veterans Wing – currently under construction – has been initiated by the Philippine Military Academy Magiting Class of 1970 with funding support from Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc (BCFI) and Newport World Resorts Foundation, Inc (NWRFI), among others.
The two foundations released Php30 million with PAGCOR’s approval.
The project will be carried out in two phases, the regulator explained, with the first phase sponsored by BCFI covering civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, masonry works and roof deck waterproofing while the second phase will be funded by NWRFI and consists of works, fixtures and devices.
The Magiting Wing will have a total floor area of almost 1,380 square meters and will house 12 new private rooms inclusive of four suites, a nurse station, lounge area, hallway, storage, access ramp and connecting bridge to the main hospital building.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said the agency approved the grant from the casino foundations because of the project’s noble objective.
“PAGCOR recognizes the patriotism and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who dedicated their youth, vigor, strength and even lives for our country,” he said. “By supporting this noble project, we show our gratitude to our modern-day heroes and their families.”
Under their nation-building mandate, all Philippines integrated resort casino licensees are required to establish a foundation to fund Corporate Social Responsibility programs on education infrastructure, health facilities, environmental preservation and cultural heritage restoration.
This means 2% of the licensees’ gross gaming revenues from non-junket tables automatically go to such foundations.
Aside from BCFI and NWRFI, other major sponsors of the Magiting Veterans Wing project are DMCI, San Miguel Corporation and some retired military personnel.
RelatedPosts
