CGHMC, Renji Hospital teams perform first pediatric live transplant on Filipino patient

IN a groundbreaking milestone for Philippines-China medico-surgical cooperation, the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC) arranged the first pediatric liver transplant for a Filipino patient at Renji Hospital in Shanghai, China. This marks a significant step in advancing life-saving treatments and medical collaboration.

The two-year-old infant with biliary atresia underwent the transplant on Feb. 11, 2025, with his father as the liver donor. Led by Dr. Xia Qiang, president of Renji Hospital, the procedure was closely monitored by CGHMC's medical team. The child and his father returned to the Philippines on March 11 to continue recovery at CGHMC.

This success follows an MOU signed in May 2024 between CGHMC and Renji Hospital, formalizing their partnership in liver transplantation, physician training, and technology exchange. Renji, a global leader in pediatric liver transplants with over 3,800 cases in five years, will provide technical guidance as CGHMC works toward local pediatric liver transplants.

LIFE-SAVING COLLABORATION Arrival at the CGHMC, with key figures involved in the medical journey of two-year-old patient baby Nieco Vasquez. PHOTO FROM CGHMC

The initiative was jointly sponsored by CGHMC and Mindray, coordinated by Philmed Dynasty Corp. Key figures like Teresita Ang-See, Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz, and Ambassador Huang Xilian helped facilitate the child's visa.

Beyond its medical impact, the transplant coincides with the 50th anniversary of Philippines-China relations, strengthening diplomatic and health care ties while offering new hope to Filipino patients.