Isn’t it amazing how buildings can embody a nation’s aspirations? Here at the New National Institutes of Health Building, you see more than concrete and steel. You witness the Philippines’ commitment to health and well-being.
This story begins with a groundbreaking. The ceremony occurred on July 20, 2016. PS-PhilGEPS officials attended. They were Atty. Jose Tomas Syquia and Rosa Maria Clemente. PS-PhilGEPS acted as the procurement agent for the bidding process.
The New National Institutes of Health Building project aimed for sustainability. It adhered to US Green Building Council standards. The building also incorporates resilient design principles to combat climate change. This focus will result in energy savings and lower operational costs.
The construction was awarded to the Consortium of BF Corporation and Philab Industries, Inc. The completion was expected by November 23, 2018. This Php 935-million project promised a high-rise clinical building and research laboratory. The site covers about 3750 square meters within the UP Manila Campus.
However, the story evolved. Philab Industries partnered with the University of the Philippines. They aimed to construct a P1.6 billion National Institute of Health building. The groundbreaking ceremony included Engr. Hector Navasero, Dra. Eva De La Paz, and Dra. Carmencita Padilla.
Navasero stated that the building would improve the quality of life for Filipinos. The state-owned university funded the project. It includes specialized laboratories. The structure rose to 18 stories.
The New National Institutes of Health Building houses ten institutes. These include Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. There is also the Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Others focus on Clinical Epidemiology and Health Policy. Herbal Medicine, Ophthalmology, and Pharmaceutical Sciences are represented. The building also includes the National Ear Institute, Institute of Aging, and Human Genetics.
Philab Industries and UP NIH committed to research. This partnership sought to improve the medical situation in the country. Navasero emphasized the synergy between academia and industry. He believed it would merge intellect and expertise.
Philab Industries has a long history. Founded in 1959, it designs and equips laboratories. These labs serve various sectors like medical, scientific, and academic fields. They also cater to food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and semiconductor industries. Mining and petroleum also benefit from their expertise.
The National Institutes of Health itself was created in 1996. The UP Board of Regents established it. It aimed to strengthen UP Manila’s research capabilities. It serves as a hub for researchers and institutions.
The current NIH Building stands on Pedro Gil Street. It was inaugurated on April 18, 1997. Chancellor Perla D. Santos-Ocampo oversaw the event. The three-story building houses central laboratories. It also contains administrative offices. Its beige exterior complements the UP Manila campus.
The Executive Director leads the National Institutes of Health. They oversee all research-related units. Deputy Directors and Directors assist them. This strengthens the management and development of the NIH.
The University of the Philippines Manila commits to world-class education. It emphasizes research and extension services. These services cover health, social sciences, and the arts. They are responsive to stakeholders, the nation, and the world.
As you stand here, remember the vision behind the New National Institutes of Health Building. It’s a testament to progress. It is also a beacon of hope for a healthier future. This is not just a building. It is a promise to the Filipino people.