Under the visionary leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Philippines marked a significant chapter in global health diplomacy, presiding over the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) for the first time since the World Health Organization’s (WHO) inception in 1948. This historic moment saw Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa elected to lead the annual assembly, the highest decision-making body of the WHO, comprising 194 member nations.
President Marcos Jr. lauded the Philippines’ escalating influence in shaping international health policies, a testament underscored by Secretary Herbosa’s unanimous election. “The Philippines’ role on the global health stage is growing, and this presidency at the WHA is a clear indicator of our commitment and capacity to contribute meaningfully to worldwide health initiatives,” President Marcos stated, acknowledging the country’s expanded engagement.
In a Palace press briefing on Thursday, Secretary Herbosa highlighted the Philippines’ pivotal role in fostering health agreements that are set to profoundly benefit low- and middle-income countries, including its own. Among the significant achievements, Secretary Herbosa cited securing access to a crucial USD25 million pandemic fund from the World Bank. This fund is earmarked to significantly bolster the nation’s capacity to effectively respond to future health emergencies.
A landmark outcome of the 78th WHA, strongly championed by the Philippines, was the adoption of the groundbreaking Pandemic Agreement. This accord aims to dismantle global disparities in access to essential vaccines, medicines, diagnostics, and health technologies, particularly during pandemics and other crises, ensuring equitable distribution and preparedness worldwide.
Furthermore, the Philippines successfully garnered international support for integrating advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, into public health strategies, specifically to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis. “Leveraging cutting-edge technology will be crucial in our fight against diseases like TB, and we are proud to have secured global backing for these innovative approaches,” Secretary Herbosa remarked.
The WHA also formally recognized the Philippines as a preeminent global leader in the production of skilled health workers. This acknowledgment paves the way for stronger international partnerships aimed at safeguarding Filipino healthcare professionals both at home and abroad. Confirming this commitment, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) pledged its support for universal health coverage and underscored its dedication to ethical recruitment practices for Filipino nurses and other healthcare workers, ensuring their rights and welfare are protected globally.
This landmark presidency at the WHA solidifies the Philippines’ position as a proactive and influential force in advancing global health equity and resilience.
