In a milestone moment for Cebu’s healthcare landscape, the Comprehensive Cleft Care Center of Excellence located at the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) held its soft opening over the weekend.
Spearheaded by Operation Smile, the facility was made possible through a partnership between the Cebu City Government, MSY Foundation Inc., and donors. It is set to deliver life-changing, all-encompassing care for children with cleft lip and palate, marking a new era of specialized treatment in the region.
Kevin Thor, Director of Global Project Development at Operation Smile, reflected on the long journey that led to the facility’s creation. “Many years have passed since the dream was born,” he said, “and today we stand here, a testament to vision and perseverance, a testament that if you want it, you can achieve it.” Thor said the center, the biggest cleft care center in the world, will also be a training facility.
He recounted how he was entrusted with bringing the cleft care center to life. He acknowledged the challenges, saying, “Was it easy? No. Was it worth it? Absolutely.” For Thor, the center is more than just a facilityโit’s a home for children born with cleft lip and palate, where they can receive the comprehensive care they need. “Because every child deserves a smile,” he added, underscoring the profound impact the center will have on the lives of children and their families in Cebu and beyond.
Thor also cited the efforts of Magna CMGN Solutions Inc. A firm that specializes in the supply and installation of high-quality pre-finished products ideal for building interiors,. Magna is responsible for the interior fit-out of the center.
Martin Philip Yeung, Trustee of Operation Smile Philippines, expressed his pride and gratitude for the collaborative efforts that brought the project to life. Yeung highlighted the perseverance and dedication of everyone involved, saying, “From the very first day, the vision was clearโto establish a center that brings hope to children. Today, that vision has come true.”
He acknowledged the critical role played by local government officials, donors, and healthcare professionals, emphasizing that the centerโs success was built on unity. “We are here to spread love, and happiness, and give hope to childrenโour future leaders. This center is a symbol of what can be achieved when we work together with integrity and purpose.”
Yeung expressed deep gratitude for the collective effort that brought the Comprehensive Cleft Care Center of Excellence to life. Reflecting on the journey from the centerโs conceptualization to its completion, Yeung emphasized that it was a true team effort. “Every single thing that has happened, from the first day of conceptualization to the final stepping stone, required everyone to be here,” he said. He recognized the unwavering commitment of the team and key leaders, noting the contribution of his mother Mariquita S. Yeung who served as an inspiration, Magna, and many others involved in the project.
Yeung also underscored the long-term commitment needed to sustain the centerโs mission of providing free cleft care, noting that “the journey is just beginning.”
Acting Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia expressed his pride and gratitude at the center’s soft opening. He highlighted the dedication and sacrifices made by countless individuals behind the scenes to bring the center to life.
“What you didnโt see was how many people sacrificed for this,” Garcia said. He praised the collective effort that made the soft opening possible. The center now stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, driven by a shared commitment to improving the lives of children and others in need.
The soft opening marks a pivotal moment for both Cebu City and Operation Smile, with plans for a grand launch later this year. As the center ramps up its operations, families across Cebu and neighboring provinces can now look forward to life-changing care, bringing smiles to the faces of children and their families alike.
