Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez is calling for the formal institutionalization of the OFW Hospital, framing the move as a vital “thank you” to the migrant workers who keep the Philippine economy afloat. By pushing for House Bill No. 7227, Romualdez aims to transform temporary administrative orders into a permanent, world-class medical institution dedicated to overseas workers and their families.
A Specialized Hub for Migrant Health
The proposed OFW Hospital Act designates a Level III facility in San Fernando, Pampanga, to serve as the primary healthcare provider for OFWs. Unlike standard hospitals, this institution—co-authored by Rep. Jude Acidre—falls under the direct supervision of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). Romualdez emphasizes that this is a matter of national gratitude.
“Our OFWs carry our economy on their backs. At isang paraan para kilalanin ang kanilang kontribusyon sa ating bansa ay siguruhin na sila at ang kanilang mga kaanak at pamilya ay mayroong de-kalidad na healthcare,” Romualdez stressed.
Support for the Entire Migration Cycle
The bill envisions a “full-cycle” health journey. It mandates that the hospital handle everything from pre-deployment medical exams to 24/7 telehealth services for workers currently abroad. Romualdez notes that this facility is designed to be an institution that focuses on the OFW from the moment they prepare to leave until they return home.
“And we can do this through the establishment of an OFW Hospital. Isang institusyong tututok sa ating mga OFWs, mula sa kanilang pangangailangan bago umalis, sa pangangailangang pangkalusugan ng kanilang pamilya, at sa kanilang medical needs pagdating muli sa ating bansa,” Romualdez added.
Research and Future-Proofing
Beyond bedside care, the legislation emphasizes scientific research into occupational diseases common to migrant life. Rep. Jude Acidre highlights that the goal is to build a system that treats migrant health as a standing responsibility of government, rather than a series of temporary responses.
“This is a long-term and permanent service to all of our OFWs and their families. Sa laki ng kontribusyon nila sa ating bansa at ekonomiya, kulang pa itong kapalit. But it is really a very good start if we want to honor our heroes,” Acidre said.
Long-Term Funding and Stability
To prevent the project from fading with changing political tides, the bill integrates hospital funding into the annual General Appropriations Act. By connecting the facility to a seamless referral system consistent with the Universal Health Care Act, the measure ensures that distressed workers returning with urgent conditions no longer have to navigate a fragmented health system.
