The Department of Migrant Workers has expanded the services of its OFW Hospital in San Fernando City, Pampanga, while assuring qualified overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their dependents that medical care at the facility remains free under the government’s zero-billing program.

In a news release Thursday evening, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac highlighted the newly acquired magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, and computed tomography (CT) scan machines of the hospital’s Tuberculosis Clinic, Animal Bite Center, and expanded Radiology Department.

The new equipment adds to the hospital’s existing ultrasound, X-ray, and fluoroscopy services, giving patients access to more diagnostic procedures within the facility.

From being an infirmary, Cacdac said, the OFW Hospital is now a Level 2 facility with more than 72 beds for patients requiring inpatient care.

“We are shifting our health framework from reactive care to proactive protection. A healthy OFW begins with strong preventive care and extends to comprehensive medical support for their families,” he said.

“Sa ating mga bagong bayani, para sa inyo ang OFW Hospital na ito at lahat ng serbisyo nito ay libre (To our modern-day heroes, this OFW Hospital and all its services are for you, free of charge) – zero billing.”

In 2025, the hospital served about 154,000 OFWs and their dependents, including their parents and children.

Qualified OFWs and their dependents may avail of the hospital’s zero-billing services, which include consultations, diagnostic procedures, medicines available at the hospital pharmacy, and emergency room services, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“Our growing pains are over. The only thing we are spending here is time,” Cacdac said, noting that the hospital would continue to increase its capacity.

The DMW is also coordinating with the Department of Health on a possible partnership for the operation of the planned Cancer Care Center. (PNA)