A New Dawn in Pediatric Care: Manila Mayor’s Vision Fuels Landmark Liver Transplant 

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno (L) visits the patient of the Philippines’ first successful pediatric liver transplant performed at a government hospital.

A New Dawn in Pediatric Care: Manila Mayor’s Vision Fuels Landmark Liver Transplant 

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationWeek.Com | November 20, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Hope shines brightly for Filipino children battling life-threatening illnesses as a nine-year-old patient becomes the first to undergo a successful pediatric liver transplant in a government hospital. 

The groundbreaking achievement, performed at the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), was propelled by a visionary initiative led by Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso and a transformative ₱30 million donation.

Moreno visited UP-PGH on Tuesday, November 18, celebrating not just a medical milestone but a testament to his unwavering commitment to providing accessible, life-saving healthcare for the city’s most vulnerable children. 

The successful surgery marks a turning point in Philippine medicine, proving that advanced medical procedures can be brought within reach of those who need them most.

“This transplant is more than a medical procedure; it’s a beacon of hope,” Moreno declared as he was flanked by UP-PGH Director Dr. Gerardo Legaspi and UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael Tee. 

“It’s a powerful demonstration of what we can achieve when we prioritize the health and well-being of our children, investing in their future and giving them a chance to thrive.”

The ₱30 million fund, spearheaded by Moreno, was raised through a combination of strategic private donations, philanthropic partnerships, and the Mayor’s personal talent fees. 

Initially intended to send patients abroad for more affordable liver transplants, the successful in-country procedure showcases the growing capabilities of Filipino medical professionals and the potential for self-sufficiency in critical healthcare.

Beyond the groundbreaking liver transplant program, the donation has had a profound impact on pediatric care at UP-PGH. 

The remaining funds are now being channeled into providing vital chemotherapy treatments for pediatric cancer patients, where costs can soar from ₱120,000 to ₱500,000 per child, creating an insurmountable barrier for many families.

The fundraising journey itself was a testament to the collaborative spirit. 

A PGH Foundation golf tournament, coupled with generous contributions from businesses like Jag Jeans, Kenny Rogers, Seattle’s Best, and I.M. Coffee, fueled the effort. 

Notably, Moreno directed his personal ₱1 million endorsement fee to the PGH cancer ward, solidifying his unwavering dedication to the cause.

The landmark pediatric liver transplant signifies more than just a major advancement in Philippine healthcare.

It underscores the transformative power of public-private partnerships, visionary leadership, and a relentless commitment to saving lives.

The success story unfolding at UP-PGH offers a powerful beacon of hope for children battling life-threatening illnesses across the country, setting a new standard for accessible, advanced medical care and inspiring a future where every child has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life.