A seven-year-old Filipino boy whose family is based in Abu Dhabi has arrived in Taiwan for a specialized medical procedure, the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed on Jan. 20, 2026.
The child, identified as Andrey Limbaring, was accompanied by his parents and landed at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport around 3 p.m. on Jan. 19. Upon arrival, the family was taken straight to a medical facility to begin preparations for treatment.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the agency has been working with relevant authorities to ensure the child’s safe travel and access to care. The release did not detail the exact medical procedure but described it as specialized and necessary.
Background and Medical Urgency
Before the transfer, Andrey was reportedly in an intensive care unit in Abu Dhabi due to a serious health condition. In mid-January, officials from the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) visited the family to assess the situation and coordinate support for the child’s treatment abroad.
The case drew attention as another example of the challenges some overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) face when dependents require complex medical support while the worker is abroad.
DMW announced that Andrey Limbaring, the 7-year-old son of an OFW in Abu Dhabi, has safely arrived in Taiwan for specialized treatment, with medical and welfare support from DMW, OWWA, and partner agencies.#DMWPHL#TahananNgOFW#BagongPilipinas pic.twitter.com/Qgh9424pgQ
— Department of Migrant Workers – Philippines (@DMWPHL) January 21, 2026
Official Response and Coordination
The DMW said it facilitated coordination with agencies in Taiwan to aid the family upon arrival. This included travel assistance, liaison with medical facilities, and guidance on local procedures.
Though Taiwan is not a signatory to certain international labor agreements, many countries, including the Philippines, maintain arrangements that allow patients to receive medical care there when necessary. Taiwan’s healthcare system is widely regarded for its advanced services and international patient support.
For Filipinos working in the United Arab Emirates and other countries, this case highlights the importance of understanding medical evacuation and cross-border healthcare options for families. OFWs are encouraged to keep updated with the DMW’s official announcements and to maintain complete documents for dependents, especially for emergency health cases.
Family Statement
In their FB message posted on January 24, Andrey’s family thanked government workers involved in the case, saying they went “beyond duty” and served with compassion and care. They also acknowledged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.
The family specifically mentioned the Department of Migrant Workers, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, the Philippine Embassy – Abu Dhabi, and migrant worker offices in Taipei and Dubai for their roles in assisting the transfer.