TACLOBAN CITY – The Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) has officially opened its veterans ward, named the ‘Captain Nievas Fernandez Veterans Ward,’ within the regional hospital compound.
The ward is dedicated to the memory of Captain Nievas Fernandez, a lesser-known World War II hero and a native of Tacloban City.
The facility, inaugurated on January 20, 2025, is a donation from the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO).
“Although the ward was inaugurated in November 2024, the management had to wait for the necessary permit from the Department of Health before it could become operational,” Atty. Roby Peñalosa, EVMC information office head, said.
The ward is equipped with 15 beds exclusively for World War II veterans, Korean War veterans, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) retirees, and their qualified dependents requiring hospital treatment or confinement.
“For those admitted to the Veterans Ward, their medical expenses will be covered by PVAO. This is in addition to PhilHealth and other government subsidies,” Peñalosa explained.
To avail of in-patient care, veterans, retirees, and their dependents must present proper identification issued by the PVAO or the AFP.
This facility is the fifth Veterans Ward established in the country under Republic Act No. 6948, which mandates that Filipino war veterans be provided with hospital care through the Veterans Memorial Medical Center and other designated Veterans Wards nationwide.
The opening of the Captain Nievas Fernandez Veterans Ward underscores the commitment to honor the sacrifices of Filipino war heroes and ensure that they, along with their families, receive the care and respect they deserve.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
