CebuDoc Radiation Therapy Center inaugurated a new chapter in cancer care on May 9, 2025, with the unveiling of the Varian Halcyon™ Linear Accelerator — the first of its kind in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
The launch, marked by a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, introduces a state-of-the-art system developed by Siemens Healthineers that offers faster, image-guided radiation therapy with enhanced precision and patient comfort. The event was led by Dr. Potenciano “Yong” S.D. Larrazabal III, president and chairman of CebuDoc Group (CDG), alongside board members and key hospital executives. Also present were radiation oncologists, representatives from Siemens Healthineers and other medical professionals. He was joined by esteemed CDG board members: Dr. Philip Anthony Larrazabal, Bettina Anne Larrazabal-Veloso, Mia Larrazabal-Carcel, Dr. Jose Antonio S. Quitevis, Dr. Gerard Garcia, Dr. Florencia Miel and Dr. Bimbo Tequillo. Also in attendance were Chadelsa Binondo, CebuDoc hospital administrator; Edna Jocelyn Caballero, CDG corporate administrator; and esteemed radiation oncologists Dr. Hilario Cabaitan and Dr. Charity Uy. Representatives from Siemens Healthineers, Jerome Gavino, Jigs Quimco and Michael Schmermer, were also present.
“This is more than just acquiring a new machine,” said Dr. Potenciano Larrazabal. “This is our commitment to providing world-class healthcare right here in the Visayas and Mindanao. By investing in cutting-edge radiation therapy technology, we aim to bring hope, healing and healthcare excellence closer to every cancer patient in the region.”
The Halcyon system enables shorter, quieter and more efficient treatment sessions by integrating 100 percent image-guided technology, allowing physicians to monitor and adjust each procedure based on the patient’s anatomy. According to Doctor Cabaitan, radiation oncologist at CebuDoc, the system ensures targeted, precise treatments with reduced side effects.
“Treatments that once took long and strenuous hours can now be completed in minutes,” he said. “We can now deliver highly accurate therapy while prioritizing patient comfort.”
CebuDoc emphasized that the center is not only equipped with advanced technology but is also staffed with a multidisciplinary team of skilled radiation oncologists, physicists and nurses. Together, they deliver individualized care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Accessible care remains a priority, with Dr. Potenciano Larrazabal noting that through CebuDoc’s foundation and charity programs, underprivileged patients can avail themselves of treatment at cost-effective rates. “Everyone deserves a fighting chance,” he added.
Open from Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., the CebuDoc Radiation Therapy Center aims to serve as a regional hub for cancer treatment — making high-quality care more accessible to patients in the Visayas and Mindanao.
For more information, patients may contact CebuDoc Radiation Therapy Center at (032) 253 7511 local 115 or (0998) 566 8267.