In a milestone for women’s healthcare and international cooperation, the governments of Israel and the Philippines on Thursday formally launched the ISHA Women’s Health and Wellness Center at Rizal Medical Center (RMC) in Pasig City.

The initiative, named “ISHA” after the Hebrew word for “woman,” represents a collaborative effort between the Embassy of Israel in Manila, MASHAV – Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH), and RMC, with support from the Makati Medical Center Foundation (MMCF).

Described as a “one-stop-shop” for comprehensive, life-stage healthcare, the center aims to serve Filipino women from preconception and reproductive health, through postnatal and menopause care, as well as mental wellness. Notably, it will also include a dedicated unit for survivors of gender-based violence, offering medical, psychological, and forensic services in a secure and compassionate environment.

“This initiative is not just about healthcare—it’s about dignity, access, and opportunity for every Filipina,” said Ambassador Ilan Fluss, hailing the project as a symbol of the long-standing friendship between Israel and the Philippines.

The launch was marked by the signing of a Joint Communique among the partner organizations, attended by Ambassador Fluss, Deputy Head of MASHAV Ambassador Irit Savion, DOH Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, and RMC Chief Dr. Maria Encarnita Limpin-Lumague.

Also present were Israeli OB-GYN specialists from Lis Maternity Hospital at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center/Ichilov—Dr. Ronit Almog and Dr. Ran Nagar, who are lending expertise in establishing the center’s clinical model. Leaders from the Makati Medical Center Foundation, including President Dr. Victor Gisbert and Executive Director Marge Macasaet-Barro, joined the ceremony, along with Deputy Israeli Ambassador Ester Buzgan.

Ambassador Savion highlighted the initiative as a reflection of MASHAV’s enduring mission to bring Israeli innovation and compassion to global development. “The ISHA Project is a landmark in our deep partnership with the Filipino people,” she said.

For RMC, the launch is historic. It is the first dedicated women’s health center in the institution’s 84-year existence. “This project embraces a comprehensive and compassionate approach,” said Dr. Lumague. “It ensures that every woman—regardless of age or circumstance—receives the dignity and care she deserves.”

DOH Secretary Herbosa expressed his gratitude to the Israeli government, stating: “This center reflects the convergence of innovation, empathy, and Israeli best practices. It is a gift of health to Filipino women.”

The ISHA Women’s Health Initiative is poised to serve as a model for future collaborations in health, gender equality, and humanitarian cooperation between Israel and the Philippines.