Establishment of the OFW Hospital, Inter-Agency Committee

OFWs significantly contribute to the Philippine economy through remittances.
Establishment of a specialty government hospital for OFWs acknowledges their contributions and addresses their unique health issues.

The National Government shall establish the OFW Hospital in San Fernando City, Pampanga.
The hospital primarily caters to the health care needs of OFWs and their qualified dependents, subject to existing laws and regulations.

Operate medical facilities including medical and diagnostic centers dedicated to OFWs and qualified dependents; extend service to general public as warranted.
Promote scientific research on occupational diseases affecting OFWs and sponsor related academic events.
Foster public interest and disseminate information on prevention, treatment, and control of diseases common to OFWs.
Provide training for healthcare professionals in occupational health services relevant to OFWs.
Support universities, research institutions, and other medical facilities in OFW-related health studies.

ICOH is created to oversee the hospital’s establishment and administration.
Composition:
- Chairperson: Secretary of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
- Co-Chairperson: Secretary of Department of Health (DOH).
- Members: Secretary of Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Administrators of OWWA and POEA, and two OFW representatives (land-based and sea-based).
OFW representatives must be at least 40 years old with minimum 3 years abroad work experience, appointed by the President from nominees.

Coordinate with Governance Commission to properly establish/incorporate the hospital following the GOCC Governance Act and DOH regulations.
Upon incorporation, act as the Board of Trustees with obligations to:
- Formulate and implement hospital programs effectively.
- Create policies for sound hospital administration and operations.
- Appoint a qualified Hospital Administrator and define their functions.
- Determine organizational structure and staffing.
- Perform additional functions necessary to achieve hospital objectives.

Establish an office within the hospital, via OWWA, to process and approve OFW benefits applications.
Develop a referral system with OWWA and POEA ensuring efficient medical service delivery and pre-employment medical examinations.
Strengthen health benefits and medical assistance programs including subsidies for hospitalization and medical procedures, budget permitting.
Perform other functions as directed by ICOH or Board of Trustees.

Ensure hospital obtains all necessary permits and licenses per relevant laws and regulations.
Promote the holding of specialist clinics by medical experts from other government hospitals in the OFW Hospital.
Provide professional services to OFWs, qualified dependents, and other patients.
Carry out additional duties as directed by ICOH or Board of Trustees.

OWWA directed to improve healthcare access, benefits, and medical assistance for OFWs and dependents, subject to funding and laws.
All government entities, including GOCCs, must assist ICOH and Board of Trustees for effective implementation.

Initial funding charged against DOLE appropriations.
ICOH/Board will coordinate with DBM for inclusion of future funding in General Appropriations Act, subject to budget processes.

ICOH or Board of Trustees must submit an annual report to the President through the Executive Secretary on the order’s implementation.