Former senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has asked for continued prayers for Pope Francis’ full recovery after the Pontiff’s discharge from the hospital.

“I join the millions of the faithful who are thankful for the good news that Pope Francis has been discharged from the hospital,” said Pangilinan in Filipino.

‘In these challenging times, Pope Francis has been a steadfast messenger of hope. His humility and unwavering faith remind us that true progress comes from lifting each other up.’

“I am so happy that we have seen him after his long confinement,” he added.

Pope Francis made his first public appearance on Sunday, 23 March, offering a blessing from the window of his hospital room.

The Pope visited the Philippines in January 2015 after the onslaught of Supertyphoon Yolanda, bringing hope and solidarity, especially to the survivors and all Filipinos.

The Holy Father also once called Filipinos, particularly Filipino women in Rome, “smugglers of faith” who “sow the faith” wherever they work.

“It is part of your genes, a blessed infectiousness that I urge you to preserve,” the Pope had said, encouraging them to keep spreading the faith.

“In these challenging times, Pope Francis has been a steadfast messenger of hope. His humility and unwavering faith remind us that true progress comes from lifting each other up,” Pangilinan said.

“Let’s continue praying for Pope Francis’ health and well-being. May he grow stronger so that he can continue his important work for peace and unity,” he added.

Kiko advocates for improved healthcare

Pangilinan is advocating for improved healthcare and social protection for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), highlighting the need to secure their well-being while abroad and upon their return.

“Despite being called ‘modern-day heroes,’ many OFWs still lack adequate healthcare and social protection,” Pangilinan said. “We must ensure their medical needs are met.”

Many OFWs face difficulties accessing quality healthcare abroad due to high costs and limited insurance coverage. Pangilinan called for a comprehensive review of the PhilHealth program and proposed expanding coverage to include more outpatient and emergency services. He also aims to strengthen partnerships with host countries for affordable healthcare and streamline claims processing.

Pangilinan stressed the importance of a sustainable reintegration program for returning OFWs, including affordable healthcare and retirement benefits. He also urged strengthening the OFW Hospital in Pampanga to provide free medical services to OFWs and their dependents.

“These programs need proper funding. OFWs work tirelessly abroad, yet return without guaranteed protection. This is unjust,” Pangilinan added.