At the grounds of the newly renamed Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II, health officials, businesspeople, invited guests and community members witnessed the unveiling of the new name of the community clinic. The ceremony was also in acknowledgement of the expansion of services and opening hours at the clinic.
After a brief but touching ceremony, wherein invited speakers Marina Kay (President of the San Pedro Lions Club), Elito Arceo (representative of the San Pedro Business Association), Daniel Guerrero (on behalf of Belize Rural South Area Representative Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr.), Honorable Pablo Marin, Minister of Health and Dr. Peter Allen, CEO in the Ministry of Health recalled Dr. Otto’s quiet but powerful service to the community. All acknowledged the need to honor his memory, to continue his legacy for generations to come. And then it was time for the ceremonial reveal.
Under the warm rays of the sun, Dr. Otto’s widow Mireya and son Henry were joined by Honorable Pablo Marin, and San Pedro Mayor Elsa Paz in the unveiling of the new name. Mrs. Rodriguez addressed the crowd briefly and emotionally, thanking the community for accepting her family as part of San Pedro, and for honoring her late husband’s name.
Minister of Health promises new Hospital for San Pedro
“As of today, October 7, 2011, at 20 minutes to 11, [I would like to announce to everyone present that I will promise] a new hospital to be built here in San Pedro for the benefit of the people of San Pedro.” This statement was met with loud cheers as Honorable Pablo Marin took to the podium to address those in attendance. He went on to acknowledge that the island needs a proper hospital, especially it being the tourism destination that it is. “I have listened to your concerns – I understand them and I agree that we really need a hospital… because BATSUB has already left the country, we need hospital for our people, for our Belizean brothers and sisters that are here in San Pedro.”
According to Minister Marin, he has already started talking to Minister Heredia and Mayor Elsa Paz. The first step to making the hospital a reality is to secure a location. “Find this location, and I will guarantee you, that I will make this possibility a reality.” The San Pedro Sun will follow this new development and keep readers informed.