Israel, Phl unveil women’s health center

The governments of Israel and the Philippines have launched the ISHA Women’s Health Initiative, establishing a pioneering One-Stop-Shop Women’s Health and Wellness Center at the Rizal Medical Center (RMC) in Pasig City.

Inspired by the Hebrew word “ISHA,” meaning “woman,” the project is a collaborative effort between the Embassy of Israel in Manila, MASHAV-Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, the Department of Health (DoH), and the RMC, with support from the Makati Medical Center Foundation (MMCF).

“This initiative is not just about healthcare — it’s about dignity, access, and opportunity for every Filipina,” said Ambassador Ilan Fluss, who described the project as a milestone in Israel-Philippines relations.

The center will offer comprehensive, life-stage healthcare for women, covering everything from preconception and reproductive health to postnatal care, mental wellness, and menopause management.

It will also feature a dedicated unit for the care of women and children affected by gender-based violence, providing medical, psychological, and forensic support in a safe and compassionate environment.

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Joint Communique (JC) at the Rizal Medical Center. Attendees included Ambassador Fluss, deputy head of MASHAV Ambassador Irit Savion and DoH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa

Visiting Israeli senior OB/GYN specialists, Dr. Ronit Almog, Head of “Ichilov Aid,” and Dr. Ran Nagar, Ultrasound Specialist, both from the Lis Maternity Hospital at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center/Ichilov, are leading the project and sharing expertise from Israel’s leading women’s hospital.

Also present were Dr. Victor Gisbert, president of the Makati Medical Center Foundation; Marge Macasaet-Barro, executive director of the foundation; and Deputy Ambassador Ester Buzgan.