ZAMBOANGA CITY — Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families in Region IX will soon have access to dedicated healthcare services with the opening of the first-ever OFW Hospital Ward at the Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC).
The initiative is a joint effort of the Department of Migrant Workers – Regional Office IX (DMW-IX), the Department of Health – Zamboanga Peninsula Center for Health and Development (DOH-ZPCHD), Zamboanga City Medical Center, and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration – Regional Welfare Office IX (OWWA-RWO IX).
The facility aims to provide quality and accessible healthcare services exclusively for OFWs and their dependents in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi (BASULTA) areas.
In preparation for the official opening, DMW Regional Director Gay Iris TS. Tangcalagan recently visited ZCMC and met with Medical Center Chief II Dr. Afdal Y. Kunting to finalize operational plans, technical requirements, and service arrangements for the ward.
An ocular inspection was also conducted to assess the readiness of the facility and ensure that all necessary healthcare services and accommodations are in place for future patients.
Once operational, the OFW Ward will offer free healthcare services and hospital accommodations to qualified OFWs suffering from illnesses. The project is intended to recognize the sacrifices and contributions of Filipino migrant workers who continue to support their families and contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
Dr. Kunting emphasized the importance of ensuring that OFWs receive quality healthcare and access to modern medical facilities as a form of appreciation for their hard work and dedication abroad.
Meanwhile, Regional Director Tangcalagan expressed gratitude to partner agencies for their support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting and promoting the welfare of OFWs both during their employment overseas and upon their return to the Philippines.
With final preparations now underway, the OFW Ward is expected to become operational in the coming weeks, marking another milestone in delivering compassionate and specialized services for Filipino migrant workers in Region IX.
