TMC Iloilo wins Healthcare Asia community award

By Mariela Angella Oladive

ILOILO CITY — The Medical City Iloilo (TMC Iloilo) was recognized for its community-driven healthcare efforts after winning the Community Initiative of the Year award at the Healthcare Asia Awards 2026, highlighting its work with the Ati indigenous community.

The award was given for the hospital’s ATIPAN Community Adoption Program, a multi-sector initiative that expands access to healthcare while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The program integrates medical services, skills training, and employment pathways for members of the Ati community in Iloilo.

Developed in partnership with the University of San Agustin, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Health, and the Center for Heritage and Indigenous Cultures, the initiative evolved from medical outreach activities into long-term capacity-building programs.

Selected participants underwent TESDA-accredited healthcare training, with the first batch hired as nursing assistants at TMC Iloilo in 2024 and later absorbed into regular positions.

The program underscores a broader approach to healthcare—one that extends beyond clinical services to include community development and workforce inclusion.

The recognition came alongside major wins for The Medical City Group, which was named Hospital Group of the Year, while its nationwide clinic network earned Clinic Group of the Year.

The Medical City Ortigas also received the Medical Tourism Initiative of the Year award.

“These recognitions reflect the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and employees across the entire The Medical City network. By working as one fully integrated academic health system, we are able to deliver consistently high-quality care and make it more accessible across the country,” said Dr. Stuart Bennett, president and group CEO of The Medical City.

TMC Iloilo is one of five hospitals under The Medical City network and has been operating in Iloilo Province since 2009.

The hospital is known for its “Patient Partnership” approach, which encourages patients to take an active role in their healthcare journey and promotes collaborative care between patients and healthcare providers.