OFW party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino on Saturday welcomed the commitment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to improve the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Hospital’s facilities and staffing in Pampanga.
The DMW made the pledge on the heels of criticisms by Senator Raffy Tulfo on the hospital’s alleged sloppy service.
“Our dedicated OFWs deserve our utmost respect and care. By prioritizing the improvement and expansion of the OFW Hospital’s services, while enhancing its promotion and accessibility, we can create a healthcare system that genuinely serves and supports our modern-day heroes,” Magsino told the Manila Standard.
At the same time, Magsino said her group will work closely with the DMW and the Department of Health to ensure the upgrades of facilities and equipment of the OFW Hospital.
“It is crucial that our OFWs, both current and former, who have made significant sacrifices and contributions to our country, receive the best possible healthcare services in the hospital dedicated to them, thus the OFW Party List will work with DMW, as well as DOH, on ensuring the upgrades of facilities and equipment of the OFW Hospital,” Magsino said.
However, she cited “two bigger challenges” than the health facilities—access to and awareness of the services of the OFW Hospital.
Magsino also supported calls to establish OFW hospitals in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
“Currently, the OFW Hospital is located in Pampanga, thus limiting its access to OFWS and qualified dependents in nearby areas,” she said.
She also appealed to the concerned to intensify its information dissemination on the services offered by the OFW Hospital as such is “equally vital.
“Despite significant efforts to publicize its existence, many OFWs and their families remain unaware of the specialized healthcare services available to them in said hospital,” Magsino said.
“To address this, we must intensify our promotional campaigns through various channels, including social media, community outreach programs, and collaborations with Migrant Workers Offices,” she added.
DMW Undersecretary Hans Leo Cacdac earlier said his office is now coordinating with Senator Tulfo’s office regarding the senator’s concerns.
