MANILA (AP) — Military leaders, lawmakers’ spouses and corporate executives gathered last December for the formal opening of a new cancer treatment hub dedicated to Filipino soldiers. The Bagong Bayaning Mandirigma Cancer Care Center, or BBM CCC, aims to streamline early detection and therapy for uniformed personnel facing the disease.

AFP officials described the center as a key outcome of a public-private partnership with the MVP Group of Companies. Through its Tulong Kapatid program, the group channeled resources into the project alongside the Congressional Spouses Foundation Inc. and One Meralco Foundation. Makati Medical Center Foundation provided on-site support for the inauguration.

“This center stands as a promise to our soldiers and their families,” an AFP statement read. The facility targets active and retired personnel plus dependents, offering thorough care to cut travel time and costs associated with cancer visits to distant hospitals.

Attendees at the December 2025 ceremony included representatives from government agencies, medical professionals and business leaders. They highlighted how the center addresses healthcare gaps for those who serve. Early intervention there could boost survival rates, according to project backers.

Tulong Kapatid, launched by the MVP Group to extend corporate responsibility beyond profits, framed its involvement as tribute to national defenders. “Businesses must serve the protectors of our country,” a foundation release stated.

The effort fits into President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push for joint ventures between state and private entities. His administration has such models to tackle shortages in medical and welfare services. Officials said the BBM CCC exemplifies how combined efforts yield tangible gains for citizens.

Located within the Makati Medical Center complex, the center equips patients with diagnostics, chemotherapy and support services tailored to military needs. AFP data shows rising cancer cases among troops exposed to harsh field conditions over years of service.

Retired Gen. Andres Centino, a former AFP chief, attended the event and praised the setup. He noted that soldiers often delay treatment due to postings in remote areas. The new site changes that equation, he said in remarks reported by local media.

One Meralco Foundation, part of the power utility giant, committed funding for equipment and staffing. Congressional Spouses Foundation leaders, including actress and philanthropist Heart Evangelista, helped rally political backing.

Proponents expect the center to handle hundreds of cases annually. Initial operations focus on common cancers like lung and prostate types prevalent in the veteran population. Follow-up programs will track long-term outcomes.

This marks the latest in a series of Tulong Kapatid initiatives with the military. Past projects include disaster relief and education aid for troops’ children. The cancer center elevates that work into specialized health delivery.

As doors swung open, participants emphasized unity’s role. Private funds fill public shortfalls, they argued, creating a blueprint for future collaborations. For soldiers battling illness alongside past duties, the facility delivers on that pledge.