I previously briefly considered the Philippines for a hip replacement at the start of when I got serious about looking for solutions. I very quickly dismissed it, for different reasons. One is I was there years ago, only a brief trip in 1994 but I never liked the vibe. It’s expensive compared to other countries in the region. I was thinking it might have a very developed medical tourism sector because of the amount of Americans who settle there, but soon found out that this isn’t the case. From my research, it seems to be on a par with Cambodia, not sure about Vietnam.

So on this journey I got as far as finding the place I’m happy with in Vietnam, but then realising that they might not be able to get the hardware. So now I need to know what the options are where the hardware might exist and take it from there, and so I am reconsidering the Philippines, which I believe is cheaper than Thailand, and I would definitely be happier staying here for an extended period than India – although I get a feeling it’s going to be a bit of a long-shot. But this is a huge decision, obviously, and I want to check every single option before I put my chips down (so to speak).

The main place always recommended is St. Lukes. I sent an email a few days ago and nothing so far. The initial inquiries are just hardware stock to see if it might be an option. A simple search puls up the following options. K

Key hospital and Surgeon Contacts

For complex cases involving potential muscle loss or specific implant requirements, focus on surgeons specializing in “Adult Reconstructive Surgery” and “Arthroplasty.”

St. Luke’s Medical Center (Global City & Quezon City)
Widely considered the premier institution in the country. They have a dedicated Institute of Orthopedics that handles complex joint issues.
Email: [email protected] (Quezon City Dept) or [email protected]

Makati Medical Center (Manila)
A central hub for expats with a strong orthopedic reputation. Surgeons like Dr. Jose Fernando Syquia and Dr. Alan Leonardo Raymundo are noted specialists here.
Email: [email protected]

The Medical City (Pasig)
Known for specialized “Institutes,” their Department of Orthopedics is often more responsive than general inquiries. Look for Dr. Herminio Valenzuela Jr. or Dr. Paul Cesar San Pedro.
Email: [email protected]

Asian Hospital and Medical Center (Alabang)
Located south of central Manila, this may be more accessible for those with limited mobility. Dr. Julius Pallera is a recommended specialist for hip and knee reconstruction.
Email: [email protected] (Specify “Attn: Orthopedic Dept”)

De La Salle University Medical Center
A major teaching hospital with high-level specialists like Dr. Joaquin Pandanan, who chairs the department.
Email: [email protected]

---

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to inquire about the availability of specific hardware and expertise for a bi-lateral hip replacement.

I recently attempted to arrange a tissue-sparing approach in Vietnam. However, I have been templated at 61mm–64mm, and I have been informed that this “Jumbo” hardware is not available in that country.

Before I consider traveling to the Philippines, could you please confirm the following:

1. Do your surgeons have access to Dual Mobility systems in these larger sizes (61-64mm)?
2. Do you have a surgeon specializing in tissue-sparing approaches who handles complex, large-size cases?

Thank you for your time and I look forward to your reply.

Best regards,

Update: In addition to sending an email to the info I also asked for advice on expatriate groups on Facebook and got two contacts. One was a facilitator called KC Hollman. I messaged her but there was no answer. Many people recommended Dr Chauncey Kester Lim and I managed to get his number plus the number of the secretary from insiders. Contacted the receptionist and she said she would ask about the hardware but then ghosted me.

All the other people in this page didn’t answer me.