Authors of  “Opening the Archipelago: The Story of Blockchain in the Philippines” and publishing house Bookshelf PH have donated P250,000 to the Philippine General Hospital Medical Foundation to help the facility deliver quality healthcare to its patients.

The amount came from the proceeds of the book written by UnionBank Senior Executive Vice President Henry R. Aguda, UnionBank First Vice President Catherine Anne B. Casas, and Atty. Nathan Marasigan.  It was published by Bookshelf PH, one of the up-and-coming publishing houses in the country.  

The donation was turned over at the UnionBank Plaza in Ortigas Center, just a few weeks after the book's publication.  PGH Medical Foundation Administrative Officer Victor Querubin Zoleta received the check from Aguda, Casas, and Bookshelf PH Co-Founder Monette Quiogue. 

Casas shared that the success of the blockchain made it possible for them to assist the foundation.  Being able to help the country at the height of the pandemic  was one of the reasons that inspired the authors to  write the book, in addition to their advocacy to share their knowledge to help upskill Filipinos, allowing them to adapt fast to the changing times.  

“‘Opening the Archipelago’ shows there is clear potential for growth in the Philippines’ blockchain scene.  We believe mass blockchain adoption is inevitable. In the meantime, why not further the book’s impact by assisting our heroes through the PGH Medical Foundation today?” she said.

On the other hand, Aguda pointed out that blockchain could potentially change local industries such as banking or healthcare. 

“In the book, there is a portion where we go over how blockchain improves healthcare.  For one, blockchain’s secure and decentralized nature can make it easier for nurses and doctors to exchange patient information on a single, trusted platform," he said.

“Opening the Archipelago” was published to steer the general public towards a deeper understanding of blockchain technology by delving into how it works and how different Filipino startups/projects utilize it. The three parts of the book describe the foundations of blockchain, the innovations it builds, and the regulatory environment around it.  

Meanwhile, the donation was also made possible through the assistance of Bookshelf PH.  Bookshelf PH works with individuals looking to self-publish and any brands/organizations looking to commission a book. The publishing house provides a slew of services such as editing, printing books on-demand, and marketing.

“Whether it’s through the book or the donation, we’re just happy to have a positive impact,” said Quiogue.

The funds will help PGH Foundation purchase quality medical-grade equipment and supplies.  The organization has played an important role in helping protect frontliners at the height of the global health crisis.

“The pandemic has obviously shown us how crucial it is to have strong, robust hospitals. This donation guarantees that PGH remains a place where people can go for quality service,” Zoleta said.