A father in Cebu is demanding accountability after his six-year-old son’s leg was amputated, allegedly due to an improper medical procedure at a government hospital in Toledo City.
According to a GMA Regional TV report, Daryl Sam Quimada, 31, brought his complaint to the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) on February 17, 2025, seeking an investigation into the incident. His son sustained a wound on February 4 after stepping on broken glass while playing. Quimada said the wound was stitched up by a nursing attendant, who was reportedly unlicensed, instead of a doctor.
Two days later, the boy’s leg started to darken. Concerned about the worsening condition, the family sought medical attention in Talisay City, where a doctor advised that amputation was necessary. The lower part of the child’s left leg was removed on February 8.
Quimada expressed disbelief that an unlicensed attendant was allowed to perform the procedure. “We trusted the hospital, but we later found out that the person who stitched my son’s wound wasn’t even a licensed nurse,” he said.
Dr. Annessa Patindol, head of DOH-7’s Regulation, Licensing, and Enforcement Division, confirmed that they would conduct a fact-finding mission in Toledo City. “The hospital must answer for this complaint. Suturing should be done by a doctor, while nurses and attendants are only meant to assist,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Toledo City General Hospital has already suspended the personnel involved while conducting an internal investigation. “We are reviewing the case thoroughly. If our hospital staff failed to follow protocols, we will take appropriate action,” said Dr. Abjel Khan Espera, the hospital’s chief.
Beyond seeking justice, Quimada is also appealing for financial help to cover his son’s medical expenses.
