Several Rotary clubs are set to donate two neonatal mechanical ventilators to the Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center, aiming to strengthen critical care services for newborns and support maternal and child health programs.

The turnover, led by the Rotary Club of AIM, is scheduled on April 16 and will benefit the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), enhancing its capacity to respond to life-threatening conditions among infants.

The initiative is funded through a Global Grant from The Rotary Foundation and implemented in partnership with South Korean-based Rotary clubs, including the Rotary Club of Onyang-Oncheon and Rotary Club of Onyang-Mogryeon. Support also comes from Rotary International Districts 3830 and 3620, as well as local clubs in Makati and Manila.

Organizers described the project as a cross-border collaboration that channels international resources into the local public healthcare system, bringing advanced medical equipment to a government-run hospital.

The Philippines continues to face challenges in child survival, with data from UNICEF and the Department of Health showing that many under-five deaths occur during the newborn stage, often due to respiratory complications.

The ventilators are expected to help reduce preventable infant deaths and improve the hospital’s emergency readiness.

Ospital ng Maynila OIC-director Grace Padilla welcomed the donation, noting its role in enhancing neonatal intensive care services.

The Rotary Club of AIM will also meet with Manila Mayor Isko Moreno on April 17 to highlight collaboration between civic groups, international partners, and local government in advancing healthcare initiatives.