Mayor Khymer Olaso and Vice Mayor Beng Climaco graced the 60th anniversary celebration of Zamboanga Doctors’ Hospital Wednesday morning, May 13, honoring the institution’s long-standing commitment to quality healthcare service in the city.

Themed “From Care to Commitment, From Healing to Hope,” the celebration highlighted the hospital’s continuing role in delivering healthcare services to Zamboangueños ahead of it’s 60th founding anniversary on July 11, 2026.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Olaso, Climaco, and ZDH President Ray Chicombing, followed by a blessing rite officiated by Fr. Jovel Palermo for the memorabilia exhibit honoring the hospital’s founders. City officials also offered flowers in tribute to the pioneering doctors who established the institution.

Historical records identified the founders as former ZDH President Dr. Espiridion Alvarez, Vice President Dr. Gregorio Brillantes, Dr. Reynaldo Reyes, Dr. Miguel Wee, Dr. Felipe Lavina, Dr. Francis Barrios, Dr. Gonzalo Navarro, Dr. Leoncio Noche, and Auditor Roberto Santos.

Also present during the celebration were Medical Director Dr. Edwina Cabato, Administrator Jocelyn Canto, Dietary Head Peregrina Dagalea, former Councilor Veepee Elago, and Tetuan Barangay Chairperson Richard Mariano. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)