Philippines: New agreement seeks to remove healthcare barriers for overseas Filipino workers

The Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Migrant Workers signed a Memorandum of Understanding for better healthcare access for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families during the 2026 Migrant Workers' Health Summit in Quezon City on Tuesday.

“This reflects our shared commitment to improve coordination, strengthen our service delivery, and ensure that the health and well-being of Filipino migrant workers remain a national priority,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said during the summit.

"Migration creates opportunities for millions of Filipinos, but it also presents unique health challenges, including occupational risks, communicable diseases, mental health concerns, and barriers to accessing health services," Herbosa added.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said OFWs deserve support not only when they are earning and sending money, but more so when they need help.

Herbosa noted that the DOH’s telemedicine services were meant to support the mental health of migrant workers.

“So our psychiatrists from the National Center for Mental Health provide online psychosocial support,” said Herbosa.

The two-day summit provides free medical services for migrant workers, including screening for hypertension, diabetes, cancer, tuberculosis, and HIV, as well as nutrition assessments.