Singapore Cancer Center Expands World‑Class Cancer Care in Cebu

Singapore Cancer Center Inc. (SCCI) marked a historic milestone on February 14, 2026, celebrating its first year of operations alongside the grand launch of its expanded clinical services at the AppleOne Medical Arts Building in Cebu City. The event, themed around providing world-class cancer care locally, featured the formal opening of several specialized units and reinforced a strategic partnership with Roche (Philippines) Inc.

SCCI Chairman Dr. Ellie May Villegas said that the expansion of the cancer center is a testament to the institution’s commitment to bring world-class oncology closer to our patients in the Visayas. “At the heart of our operations is the vision of institutionalizing a standard of care that offers patients the best possible chance at recovery.”

Transforming Patient Care through Infrastructure

The anniversary celebration served as the official launch for SCCI’s new expanded services, which include a dedicated Infusion and Ambulatory Treatment Unit, an Oncology Pharmacy, and a Molecular Laboratory.

Chief Operating Officer (COO) Dr. Omid Etemadi explained how the expansion was created with the patient’s comfort in mind. “The expansion from the Molecular Lab to the dedicated Infusion Unit creates a seamless and supportive environment for patients. It is a ‘one-stop care ecosystem’ that prioritizes patient comfort and clinical excellence.”

“Previously, patients in the Visayas often faced fragmented treatment journeys,” Dr . Etemadi shared. “Now, the dedicated Infusion Unit provides a streamlined, comfortable environment for advanced therapy. This localized expertise reduces the travel burden on patients, allowing them to receive world-class care closer to their support systems, which is vital for long-term treatment adherence and outcomes.”

Breaking Barriers: SCCI as a Roche Access Program (RAP) Site

A major highlight of the event was the recognition of SCCI as an official Roche Access Program (RAP) Site. This partnership signifies a shift from ad-hoc support to a systemic solution for patients in the region, aiming to eliminate the need for patients to travel to Manila or abroad for advanced care. “The private sector is definitely committed to making medicines affordable,” Dr . Edralin shared, adding that collaborations like this are essential to ensure that progress is equitable. “One of the things that we have to learn about breast cancer is that you need to complete the treatment… organized screening, strong public-private partnership, and patient-centered care models work, and they can work here in the Philippines, too.”

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Dr. Alex Alegrado shared how being an official Roche Access Program (RAP) site is a win for patients. “With RAP, we are directly addressing the financial barriers that often hinder life-saving care. This partnership allows us to offer sustainable, high-quality treatment options right here in Cebu, ensuring that cost does not define a patient’s journey.”

A Gift of Hope for Cebu

By bringing together diagnostics, specialized pharmacy services, and advanced infusion care under one roof, SCCI leadership, including Chairman Dr Ellie Mae Villegas, CFO Dr Alex Alegrado, and COO Dr Omid Etemadi, aims to provide comprehensive end-to-end care.

As SCCI enters its second year, it remains focused on its mission to provide a “one-stop care ecosystem” that keeps patients close to their support systems while receiving top-tier medical treatment.