OFW Hospital recently marked its third founding anniversary by paying tribute to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and healthcare workers, celebrating a shared commitment to service and resilience with the theme "Three Years of Service Offered by Health Workers to the New Heroes." The celebration was led by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, who honored 198 staff members and contract service workers for their compassionate care to OFWs and their families.
Secretary Cacdac expressed his gratitude, particularly to "Doc Cocoy" and all staff members, highlighting the contribution of former OFWs now serving as hospital staff. He emphasized the significance of having professionals who have shared experiences with the patients they care for, thereby uniting "original heroes and the modern-day heroes; heroes treating heroes."
Department of Budget and Management Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran reiterated the government's unwavering support, stating that the hospital symbolizes the state's compassion for OFWs. The presence of former OFWs who now work at the hospital added a poignant element to the commemoration.
In his concluding statements, Secretary Cacdac reaffirmed the Department of Migrant Workers' commitment to providing healthcare services to all OFWs, emphasizing that "No OFW and OFW family will be left behind." Undersecretary Libiran emphasized the essence of true public service as prioritizing people's well-being.
During the event, OFW Hospital OIC Chief Dr. Patrick Louie Maglaya commended every team member, from administrators to guards, for their dedication and impact. The celebration also showcased the medical services provided that day, such as dialysis surgeries and pharmacy operations.
The future plans of the hospital were also highlighted, including an upgrade to a Level 2 classification and the establishment of specialized facilities like a Cancer Care Unit and a Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) Center for both land- and sea-based workers. PGH Director Dr. Gerardo "Gap" Legazpi and DMW Undersecretary Dominique "Nikki" Rubia-Tutay were acknowledged for their integral roles in the hospital's development.
Secretary Cacdac emphasized the ongoing collaboration among DMW, DBM, and the Department of Health to ensure a high-quality, future-ready healthcare institution that serves the needs of modern-day heroes and their families. The event also paid homage to OFWs, seafarers, and health professionals with personal connections to overseas work, as well as partner agencies vital to the hospital's journey.
