A Filipino child diagnosed with Biliary Atresia has successfully undergone a liver transplant in Shanghai, China, on Tuesday, Feb. 11.
Renji Hospital in Shanghai China medical staff (Photo from Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian Facebook post)
The child and his parents traveled from Manila to China for the life-saving procedure, which was performed at Renji Hospital by Dr. Xia Qiang, the hospital’s president and chief of surgery.
According to Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian, the surgery was made possible through the efforts of Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC) in Manila, along with several partners, including Filipino civic leader Teresita Ang See.
Ang See, known for her advocacy within the Chinese-Filipino community, played a key role in facilitating the referral system for liver transplant patients from CGHMC to Renji Hospital in Shanghai.
Ambassador Huang Xilian shared that the child is currently recovering under close medical supervision, calling the successful procedure a testament to the growing friendship and cooperation between China and the Philippines.
“Wishing the little warrior a smooth recovery and his family a joyful Lantern Festival in China,” he said.
Biliary Atresia is a rare liver disease that blocks bile ducts and causes severe liver damage, requiring immediate surgical intervention. Initially, the child received treatment at CGHMC in Manila, where doctors stabilized his condition before transferring him to Shanghai for the transplant.
The child’s father, Herdie Vasquez, served as the liver donor.
The Chinese General Hospital emphasized that this medical collaboration highlights the strengthening partnership between China and the Philippines in the healthcare sector. Renji Hospital, recognized as a global leader in pediatric liver transplants, has performed over 3,800 procedures in recent years.
To support the child’s surgery and medical care, CGHMC and its partners raised funds to cover the expenses, demonstrating their commitment to providing medical assistance to those in need.
The initiative also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Philippines diplomatic relations, reinforcing bilateral cooperation in healthcare.
The two hospitals have established a long-term partnership focused on medical education and training to enhance liver transplant techniques and healthcare standards in the Philippines.