Zamboanga City, Philippines — The City Government of Zamboanga City has strengthened its commitment to children’s health and welfare after sealing a partnership with Tebow CURE Children’s Hospital to expand access to free surgical and medical services for indigent children.
The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed Monday morning, February 23, at City Hall, marking another milestone in the city’s ongoing effort to ensure that children from low-income families receive life-changing medical care.
Signing the agreement were Tebow CURE Philippines Executive Director Peter L. Cowles and city representative Celso Lobregat, who signed on behalf of Mayor Khymer Olaso, currently in Manila on official business. The ceremony was witnessed by department heads, hospital representatives, partner officials, and families whose children have already benefited from the program.
Expanding access to specialized care
According to Cowles, the partnership builds on earlier medical missions conducted last year that enabled two batches of child patients from Zamboanga City to travel to Davao City for specialized surgical procedures. With the formal agreement now in place, the program is set to expand further, with the third batch of beneficiaries scheduled for treatment in March 2026.
Around 250 children are expected to benefit in the upcoming rollout.
The initiative offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at addressing congenital and orthopedic conditions that often remain untreated due to financial constraints. These include free medical screening and orientation, corrective surgery for cleft lip and palate, treatment for hernia, bone injuries, clubfoot, and other related conditions. Beneficiaries will also receive prescribed medicines, therapy, and post-operative follow-up care to ensure proper recovery.
Strong support from the local government
Under the agreement, the city government will play a crucial role in identifying eligible child patients at the barangay level and facilitating the program’s implementation. Local authorities will provide venues for mobile screening activities, coordinate transportation for consultations and surgery schedules, and assist families with food support during clinic visits.
The city will also help facilitate pre-surgery pediatric clearances and designate a focal person responsible for coordinating documentation and scheduling with the hospital, ensuring a smoother process for both patients and medical teams.
Officials say the partnership reflects the local government’s broader commitment to accessible healthcare, particularly for children in underserved communities.
Families share stories of hope
Parents of beneficiaries from the first and second treatment batches expressed deep gratitude for the continuing collaboration between the city government and the hospital. Many said the program opened the door for their children to receive life-changing treatment that would otherwise have been beyond their financial capacity.
For several families, the initiative not only addressed urgent medical needs but also restored hope for a healthier future for their children.
In recognition of the city’s support, Cowles presented a certificate of appreciation to the local government during the ceremony.
Also present at the signing were City Legal Officer Evangelina Doctolero and City Social Welfare and Development Officer Ma. Socorro Rojas, along with city employees and representatives from both institutions.
With the March 2026 rollout approaching, city officials and healthcare partners expressed optimism that the strengthened collaboration will allow more children in Zamboanga City to access essential medical care—giving them a renewed chance at healthier lives and brighter futures.