On World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged the Philippine government to invest in efforts to eliminate TB by 2030.

Despite being preventable and treatable, tuberculosis remains a major health issue in the Philippines, which has one of the highest TB incidence rates globally.

In 2023, approximately 70 Filipinos died from TB each day, according to the Department of Health (DoH).

TB is an infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs and spreads through the air. It is preventable and curable with antibiotics, but if treatment is interrupted, it can lead to drug-resistant TB, which is more expensive and difficult to treat.

WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, emphasized the need for timely diagnosis and care, stating that “every missed TB case is a lost opportunity to save a life.”

He called for stronger efforts to detect TB early, especially in underserved areas, and suggested using modern tools such as telemedicine, portable diagnostics, and rapid tests to improve care.

Piukala also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships to address underreporting, link private providers to national TB programs, and ensure access to affordable diagnostics and treatments. He stressed that investing in TB care and research is essential to a TB-free future.

Addressing social determinants such as poverty, Piukala called for a holistic, multi-sector approach and financial protection mechanisms to reduce the economic burden on those undergoing treatment.

He also emphasized the need for sustainable financing to ensure continuous service delivery.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa acknowledged that TB remains a significant global health challenge despite being preventable and treatable. He noted that while TB-related deaths slightly decreased from 20,605 in 2022 to 20,588 in 2023, the country is still far from being TB-free.

Herbosa emphasized the need for better detection, treatment, adherence, and the use of digital tools to track progress. He expressed confidence that with continued efforts, reducing TB mortality to zero by 2028 is an achievable goal.