The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga continues to uphold its zero-billing policy even as its patient volume and range of medical services expand substantially.
Free care from Day One
At a recent media briefing, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reaffirmed: “Not a single peso was paid,” adding that zero billing has been the program’s foundation since its inception. Dr. Patrick Louie Maglaya, Officer in Charge at the hospital, confirmed that the facility served over 53,000 patients in the first half of 2025, a 24% increase from roughly 43,000 during the same period last year. Importantly, none of these patients were billed for consultations, surgeries, or inpatient services.
Funding structure behind zero billing
Dr. Goldwin Posadas, head of ancillary services, explained the hospital’s no-fee model depends on multi-agency support, including the Department of Health, PhilHealth reimbursements, and aid from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The DMW’s Deputy Secretary Dominique Rubia-Tutay added that the hospital’s operations are financed through the annual national budget—ranging between PHP 300–500 million for utilities, staff salaries, and other expenses. With 198 plantilla positions, the hospital also supplements personnel via contract services.
Surging demand across services
The hospital’s statistics illustrate its growing role: inpatient admissions jumped 119%, from 221 to 485 cases; surgical operations increased 72%, from 180 to 309; urgent care visits rose 63%, from 1,145 to 1,863; outpatient consultations climbed 14%, reaching 23,629 cases. Notable spikes were observed in OB‑Gyne cases (+67%) and respiratory illnesses (+128%). Diagnostic support services—including radiology, lab tests, and cardiac monitoring—also saw substantial gains.
Expanding beyond basics
To meet rising needs, the hospital is rolling out specialty departments in cardiology, nephrology, pulmonology, ENT, and surgery. MRI and mammogram capabilities are slated to come online within six months, and the new Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is pending Department of Health accreditation. With an additional PHP 100 million secured for construction of a Cancer Care Center later this year, and preparations underway for Level 2 hospital accreditation, the facility is poised for further growth.
Who benefits?
The OFW Hospital serves active and former overseas Filipino workers and their dependents, continuing the government’s commitment to accessible, high-quality medical care for the OFW community.
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