Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reports that 31 dialysis patients

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reports that 31 dialysis patients, among them seven overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and three of their dependents, received free arteriovenous (AV) fistula surgeries on August 18, 2025, at the OFW Hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga. This surgical mission is a collaborative effort between the OFW Hospital and the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) Division of Transplant and Vascular Surgery, aiming to offer quality medical services to OFWs and their families.

The AV fistula surgery is a critical procedure for those requiring hemodialysis treatment, as it creates a durable access point for dialysis by connecting an artery to a vein in the arm. This method is widely recognized as the best practice for dialysis due to its enhanced blood flow, longevity, and lower infection risk compared to alternative access options.

DMW Assistant Secretary Violeta Illescas and DMW Region 3 Director Atty. Marion Sevilla emphasized that this initiative is in accordance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of OFWs and their families. The administration is focused on providing accessible and high-quality healthcare services to meet their medical needs and ensure their overall well-being. The surgery reflects the government's ongoing efforts to support the health of the OFW community, which plays a vital role in the Philippines' economy.