Marcos seeks ‘increased cooperation’ with WHO

The Philippines is looking forward for an increased collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) following the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Friday, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. met with the WHO’s regional director for the Western Pacific Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala in Malacañang Palace.

Piukala was in the country for a conference with the Department of Health.

“Welcome to Manila. I know you just finished your conference last week, which I think was quite constructive, very productive,” Marcos told Piukala.

Marcos also sought for guidance from the WHO from the knowledge gained from the pandemic.

“Well, I’m sure [Health)] Secretary Ted [Herbosa] has explained to you what the Philippines has been trying to do, especially [on] post-pandemic lessons learned. So, whatever guidance that the WHO can provide us is something that we will certainly welcome,” he said.

Piukala was elected to the Regional Committee for the Western Pacific in October 2023 and appointed to the WHO Executive Board in January 2024. He took office on 1 February 2024.

As regional director, Piukala leads the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office (WPRO) in its work with governments and partners across the Western Pacific to enhance regional health outcomes and ensure the safety of the region’s population.