By Macon Ramos-Araneta
Sen. Christopher Go pushed for the institutionalization of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Hospital, as well as the establishment of an OFW ward in DOH hospitals.
He stressed the need to maximize and ensure continuing operations of the OFW Hospital in San Fernando City, Pampanga, a facility dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of OFWs and their families.
The Senator, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, recalled the dream of having a department for OFWs, referring to them as the country’s modern-day heroes. He also emphasized significant investment made in the hospital.
“Remember, we have more than 10 million Filipinos abroad, OFWs included. We worked hard for them to have one department. I am one of the authors and co-sponsor of the law to establish the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW),” Go said.
“So, there’s a need to maximize services in our OFW Hospital,” he added.
To address this issue, Go filed Senate Bill number 2297, seeking to institutionalize the OFW Hospital and ensure its continuous operation.
The bill aims to improve healthcare services for OFWs and their families by strengthening the existing facility and allocating necessary funds for its maintenance and operation. He also urged the DMW to address any shortcomings promptly.
The OFW Hospital, a donation from the provincial government of Pampanga, commenced its operations in May 2022. It consists of six floors and can accommodate 100 beds, primarily intended for the use of OFWs and their eligible dependents.
In addition to his efforts to strengthen the existing OFW Hospital, Go expressed his support for the proposal to establish OFW wings in regional hospitals. Go also filed Senate Bill number 2414, establishing OFW wards in DOH hospitals.
He also cited that President Ferdinand Marcos has instructed DMW and the Department of Health (DOH) to discuss the possibility of implementing this initiative nationwide.
Recognizing the importance of providing proper support and protection to all Filipino migrant workers, including seafarers, Go was instrumental in the passage of Republic Act number 11641, which established the DMW.
The Senate version of the Act, Senate Bill number 2234, was authored and co-sponsored by Go.
DMW serves as the lead agency for implementing policies, plans and programs that will ensure the protection, promotion of interests, timely resolution of problems, and effective reintegration of OFWs.
Through a collaboration between DMW and DOH, the OFW Hospital will be able to offer round-the-clock telehealth services for migrant workers and their families.