The HCVGH, formerly known as Cebu Velez General Hospital, has been integrated into the Healthway Medical Network (HMN), the healthcare arm of Ayala-led AC Health.
Investing in systems, technology, and care pathways
In his keynote speech during the launching, Zobel stressed that the hospital’s rebranding represented a “partnership of progress, a shared commitment to elevate healthcare delivery in Cebu through stronger systems, improved facilities, and a patient experience rooted in compassion and quality.”
He assured stakeholders that AC Health would continue investing in infrastructure, new specialty services, digital tools, and improved care pathways to further enhance the medical facility.
“But more importantly, we will focus on what truly elevates healthcare: people,” he added.
Zobel also pledged support for the hospital’s physicians, nurses, staff, and educators, whom he described as the “heart of this partnership.”
“Our role is to support you, empower you, and ensure you have what you need to continue serving your patients with excellence,” he added.
Extending healthcare access to Cebu’s most vulnerable
The integration would also strengthen the connection between the hospital and the academic community.
Zobel said that by working closely with the Cebu Institute of Medicine and Velez College –top-notch medical schools in Cebu- they would be able to help nurture the next generation of healthcare leaders who will serve Cebu and the country for years to come.
On Sept. 19, 2025, AC Health, through HMN, entered into an agreement with the Velez family, acquiring a majority stake in the 200-bed level 3 hospital that started out as a small clinic in 1947.
Zobel pointed out that the Velez family name has always stood for compassion, service, and excellence in healthcare and education for many decades.
“This hospital has shaped generations of healthcare professionals and has touched countless lives here in Cebu. We are deeply honored to be part of this legacy and even more honored to help carry it forward,” he said.
During the launching, HMN donated 1,000 Healthway Care Cards—HMN’s prepaid healthcare—to Cebu City government for indigents needing essential outpatient services and diagnostics.
Vision and strategy
AC Health president and CEO Paolo Borromeo stressed that HCVGH is a vital part of AC Health’s goal of building a stronger, more connected healthcare system nationwide.
“By combining Velez’s deep roots in Cebu with HMN’s technology, standards, and operational expertise, we are bringing world-class care closer to families in the Visayas,” he said.
HMN president and CEO Jaime Ysmael expressed appreciation to the medical staff, saying the hospital’s transformation would not have been possible without their support.
“As we proudly welcome the hospital into the Healthway family as Healthway Cebu Velez General Hospital, our commitment is clear: to honor its legacy of service while strengthening its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of Cebuanos,” he said.
With the integration of HCVGH, HMN continues to accelerate its nationwide expansion. In Cebu alone, the network already operates a multi-specialty clinic and six corporate clinics.
In the coming years, HMN is poised to open additional clinics and specialty centers, pursue hospital infrastructure upgrades, and forge new public–private partnerships (PPP) with local governments—further solidifying its position as one of the Philippines’ most ambitious and comprehensive healthcare networks. —- Connie Fernandez-Brojan
