Hope Rises in Pampanga: President Marcos Launches Cancer Care Center

Pampanga, Philippines - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday inaugurated the “Bagong Pilipinas Cancer Care Center” at the OFW Hospital in Pampanga. This new facility aims to address the rising cancer rates in the Philippines, particularly among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

According to government data, cancer was the second highest cause of death in the Philippines from January to May 2024. Marcos stated in his speech that the building of the hospital was a part of the government's efforts to address the growing number of cancer cases in the country.

“Aggressive as this terrible disease is, we need to be equally aggressive in providing treatment for our patients—to give them hope, to provide them with care, make them feel at home, at the time when they need it the most. And this is why the hospital’s second floor will be dedicated to the Bagong Pilipinas Cancer Care Center,” Marcos said.

“While the vision is clear, we acknowledge that work remains to be done to ensure that this facility will be equipped to serve those who are in need.”

The President also honored Susan Ople, the late Secretary of Migrant Workers, who passed away in 2023 from breast cancer.

”This endeavor is inspired by the vision of the late Susan Ople, who was our DMW Secretary and who dedicated her entire life to working for the rights of our workers and eventually also our migrant workers,” he said.

‘Til the day she died, I know this for a fact, she was still working for our OFWs. And that is why we have to honor her memory and honor her legacy," he added.

The President highlighted the urgent need for increased cancer care, citing the alarming rise in cancer-related deaths in the country. The new center is designed to provide comprehensive cancer treatment services, including chemotherapy, diagnostic procedures, and surgical oncology.

The facility is expected to alleviate the burden on existing cancer centers and provide much-needed care to OFWs and their families. It will also serve as a testament to the government's commitment to improving healthcare access for all Filipinos.

President Marcos paid tribute to the late Secretary Susan Ople, a tireless advocate for OFW welfare, whose legacy continues to inspire the government's efforts to provide quality healthcare services to overseas Filipinos.