13/02/2026
One Year of Healing in Motion
Ambulatory Surgery Unit Marks Its 1st Anniversary with a Mission of Care
On February 13, 2026, the Ambulatory Surgery Unit (ASU) of Region II Trauma and Medical Center celebrates its first anniversary not just with ceremonyโbut with service.
In true reflection of its mission, the ASU commemorates this milestone by conducting a Minor Surgical Mission, in collaboration with the Surgery and ENT Departments. With a goal of serving 20 patients on this day, the initiative embodies what the unit has stood for since day one: accessible, efficient, and compassionate surgical care.
Over the past year, the ASU has redefined outpatient surgery in the regionโstreamlining procedures, reducing hospital stays, and ensuring safe, high-quality care in a patient-centered environment. What once required prolonged admissions can now be done with precision and comfort, allowing patients to return home the very same day.
The anniversary program formally opened with a solemn prayer, grounding the celebration in gratitude and purpose. This was followed by an inspiring and heartfelt message from Head Nurse Joseph G. Gutierrez, Nurse III, who reflected on the unitโs humble beginnings and the unwavering dedication of the team specially with the guidance of our Unit Head Dr. Jonee V. Mabazza with commitment and emphasizing how collaboration and patient-centered innovation shaped the ASU into what it is today.
Messages of support and pride were also delivered by Chief Nurse Ma. Luisa D. Gomez, whose leadership strengthened the foundation of nursing excellence; by Dr. Tagumpay Maniquis, who highlighted the importance of surgical outreach; and by Medical Center Chief Dr. Ray Suanding, who recognized the collective effort behind the projectโfrom planning and renovation to the successful launch and continuous operation of the unit.
By focusing on minor excisions under local anesthesia, the team maximizes safety while expanding service capacityโdemonstrating how innovation and collaboration can directly impact community health.
As the Ambulatory Surgery Unit marks its first year, it does so with steady hands and open heartsโproving that milestones are best celebrated not by looking back, but by reaching forward.
With the continued support of partners, colleagues, and the communityโfrom planning, renovating, and preparing, up to the full realization of this visionโthis anniversary becomes more than a date. It becomes a testament to dedication, unity, and service.