OFW Hospital marks 3rd year with tribute to healthcare heroes and overseas workers

The OFW Hospital recently celebrated its third founding anniversary, highlighting a shared journey of healing, service, and nation-building with the theme “Tatlong Taon, Serbisyo Alay ng Kawaning Pangkalusugan sa mga Bagong Bayani.”

The event honored not only the hospital’s medical and support staff but also the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who continue to inspire through their resilience and sacrifice.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac acknowledged the efforts of the 198 hospital staff and their pivotal role in serving fellow Filipinos, many of whom are former OFWs themselves. “We know we are in good hands—these professionals have walked the same path as our patients,” he noted, emphasizing the significance of empathy in patient care.

He also expressed gratitude to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for their continued support, stating that the hospital’s success wouldn’t be possible without it. “Heroes treating heroes,” Cacdac added, summing up the spirit of the event.

DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran echoed this sentiment, affirming the government’s commitment to OFWs. “Ang gusaling ito ay konkretong patunay na ang ating gobyerno ay nagmamalasakit sa ating mga OFWs,” she said, stressing that genuine public service is rooted in compassion.

Dr. Patrick Louie Maglaya, OIC Chief of the hospital, opened the celebration with a tribute to the entire workforce, from medical professionals to security personnel. “Today, they are heroes. We are partaking in history,” he said.

The event also recognized the hospital’s growing impact, including life-saving dialysis procedures and strengthened pharmaceutical monitoring. Founding contributors like PGH Director Dr. Gerardo “Gap” Legazpi and Usec. Dominique “Nikki” Rubia-Tutay were also honored for their roles in the hospital’s early development.

Looking forward, the institution aims to secure Level 2 classification and build specialized facilities such as a Cancer Care Unit and a Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) Center for land- and sea-based workers.

Secretary Cacdac concluded with a renewed call for unity and progress: “We invite all to journey with us toward accessible, inclusive, and high-quality healthcare—abroad and at home. Walang OFW at OFW family na maiiwan.”

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