The newly refurbished Edwin Andrews Air Base Hospital in Zamboanga City is back in operation Friday.

In a press statement released by the Public Relations Office of SM City Davao today, it said SM Foundation renovated the military facility in Zamboanga City is now up for a level one accreditation from the Department of Health (DOH).

The renovation works included the provision of furniture, appliances, and basic medical equipment.

The 29-bed capacity hospital operates as an infirmary catering to the health needs of around 3,900 uniformed personnel and their dependents, including authorized civilians within its area of responsibility.

The hospital also provides medical care and aero medical services to its stakeholders in Zamboanga, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi.

The renovation project improved the hospital’s facilities, such as the pharmacy, emergency room, laboratory, rehabilitation section, military ward, and the isolation room.

A new reception area with waiting lounge, breastfeeding room, and mobile play cabinet station for children were also installed as part of the renovation.

The medical dispensary was first established, in 1950 under the operational control of Sulu Air Task Group stationed in Baliwasan Moret during the height of a military offensive against the outlaw group of Hadji Kamlon.

In 1955, the dispensary was transferred to Santa Maria District and was renamed Edwin Andrews Air Base with the construction of a new medical wing.

In 1961, it was upgraded into a Medical Dispensary to cater to the growing PAF personnel in the area.

Currently, it is home to the Tactical Operation Command with five Tactical Operations Group, three Tactical Operations Squadron and four tenants.

The Camp Edwin Andrews Airbase Hospital is SM Foundation’s 34th improved military health facility & the 157th wellness center. (PNA)