The Pacific International Hospital (PIH) in Port Moresby city held its annual Christmas celebration yesterday, Saturday 13th December at Vision City Dynasty Restaurant, honoring staff and dignitaries while reflecting on the year’s achievements, reaffirming organizational values, and spotlighting resilience, community service and the hospital’s role as a leading healthcare provider in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

The event opened with PIH leaders welcoming staff and guests to a festive programmed focused on togetherness, gratitude and recognition of collective effort.

Reminding attendees that the Christmas season is not just about celebration, but also about community spirit and generosity, values integral to the hospital’s mission of compassionate healthcare.

PIH’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Colonel Sandeep Shaligram reflected on the dedication of the hospital’s workforce, noting how staff have excelled amid uncertainty and operational challenges throughout the year.

He highlighted the hospital’s culture of perseverance, reminding everyone that the strength of the institution lies in its people rather than its infrastructure.

Long service, hard work and commitment to quality care were acknowledged as foundational to PIH’s success.

Mr. Sandeep Shaligram also addressed criticism faced by the hospital, framing it as a sign of growth and resilience rather than a deterrent.

Using the metaphor of an eagle soaring above detractors, he encouraged staff to focus on delivering high standards of care, asserting that PIH continues to offer quality services at competitive costs compared with other private healthcare providers in PNG.

He said the hospital's growth in a growing private health care sector, underscores PIH’s role in expanding access to advanced medical services and championing innovation, even amid systemic challenges.

The celebration reaffirmed PIH’s commitment to excellence in healthcare and community impact.

As the hospital looks ahead, Mr. Sandeep Shaligram emphasized continual growth, quality improvement, and the shared goal of expanding healthcare access across the country with all grounded in the unity and dedication showcased at the Christmas gathering.