Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday called for stronger programs to combat HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), emphasizing that the fight against disease is also a “fight for health, dignity, and social justice.”

In her opening statement before the Senate Committee on Health, Hontiveros highlighted the human toll of TB, noting that the disease claims 98 Filipino lives daily—many of which could be prevented with proper care and intervention.

“Bawat buhay, mahalaga, at dapat pahalagahan (Every life is valuable and must be valued),” Hontiveros said.

She stressed that no Filipino should be marginalized because of illness, whether visible or invisible.

The senator detailed key initiatives under consideration, including stronger HIV programs, a decisive end-TB strategy, and comprehensive reforms for autism care, such as early diagnosis, inclusive education, community support, and lifelong care.

Hontiveros also emphasized the importance of community-based action in healthcare, citing the role of barangay health workers (BHWs) in TB treatment, treatment partners assisting people living with HIV, and families and advocates supporting autistic Filipinos.

She called for revisiting the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, saying it is the backbone of universal healthcare.

“Without empowered, protected, and fairly compensated BHWs, our reforms remain words on paper,” Hontiveros said.

Further, Hontiveros outlined a vision for a health system where no one is left behind, stigma is eliminated, and healthcare workers’ rights are respected and protected.

“Ang layunin: mas makatao, mas inklusibo, at mas makatarungang kalusugan para sa bawat Pilipino (The goal: a more humane, inclusive, and equitable healthcare system for every Filipino),” she said.