First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos has extended her personal commitment to support Filipino children undergoing critical medical treatments at Apollo Hospital in India.
During her visit to the facility, Mrs. Marcos met with young patients suffering from severe conditions, including biliary atresia—a rare and life-threatening liver disorder in infants. The disease, which causes scarring and blockage of bile ducts, often requires specialized treatments not yet accessible in many parts of the Philippines.
In a heartfelt message, the First Lady acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families, many of whom traveled far from home in search of care. “To every family I met today: please know that you will not be forgotten,” she said. “We — together with the driving forces behind Apollo Hospital and the Philippine-India Chamber of Commerce — will do whatever we can to support you every step of the way.”
She emphasized the emotional impact of her visit, describing the courage she witnessed in the children and their parents. “What I witnessed was more than just medicine at work — it was the strength of a mother’s love, the quiet courage of fathers, and the fierce will of children who simply want to live,” she shared.
The First Lady’s hospital visit is part of a five-day state trip to India with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. After their engagements in New Delhi, the delegation is expected to continue to Bengaluru before returning to Manila on Friday, August 8.
