The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) has expressed full readiness to provide comprehensive health support to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning to the country, especially those from the Bicol Region, amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
This comes in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to mobilize concerned government agencies and ensure delivery of coordinated services for displaced OFWs, from safe repatriation to reintegration support.
As part of this effort, the “Bayanihan para sa Balikbayang Manggagawa,” a National Reintegration Network Activity cum Balik-Turo was conducted on April 15, 2026 at the Department of Education Regional Office V, gathering 30 returning OFWs from Albay, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon.
As part of its immediate assistance, DOH Bicol distributed medicines and vitamins to the OFWs and their families during the activity. The Department underscored the importance of accessible healthcare services for returning workers, recognizing physical and emotional toll experienced by those coming from crisis-affected areas.
Dr. Raymond Martin Corpus, head of the Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control Cluster, presented the Department’s available health programs and services through the rural health units, including medical consultations, disease screening, and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) to address trauma, stress, and other health concerns.
The Department also highlighted that returning OFWs may avail of Zero Balance Billing and medical assistance through Malasakit Centers and the Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients Program (MAIFIPP) in DOH hospitals and partner health facilities.
DOH Bicol reaffirmed its commitment to serve as a reliable support system, ensuring that no returning OFW is left without access to essential health services.
Source: DOH Bicol CHD