Unilab Foundation pushes stronger LGU health systems

The Unilab Foundation gathered national and local government officials, health experts, researchers and development partners to discuss strengthening local health systems and advancing universal health care at the grassroots level.

The foundation held its first Executive Symposium on 28 September 2026 at the Bayanihan Center in Pasig City under the theme “Building Enduring Frontlines: Transforming LGU Health Systems.”

Organized through the foundation’s Sustainable Health Care program, the event focused on translating national universal health care policies into stronger and more responsive health services in cities and provinces.

Health Secretary Edwin Mercado and Budget Secretary Kim Robert De Leon presented national policy perspectives, while Finance Secretary Frederick Go delivered a video message.

Local implementation took center stage, with Naga City Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo and Dr. Janine Patricia Robredo of Ariadne Labs discussing the city’s approach to primary health care data governance.

Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Lacson and Bangsamoro Deputy Health Minister Dr. Zul Qarneyn Abas also shared their experiences in implementing universal health care programs.

They were joined in discussions by Batanes Gov. Ronald Aguto Jr. and Institute for Autonomy and Governance Executive Director Benedicto Bacani.

The symposium also tackled health financing and its impact on local services.

Acting PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Beverly Lorraine Ho discussed the relationship between health financing and local health outcomes, while Dr. Maria Eufemia Yap of the Ateneo School of Government presented findings from the Local Health Financing Project.

Officials from Antique, Romblon, Quezon, Cebu, Isabela City and Bacolod City discussed how local governments can better align health plans, resources and services with community needs.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros and Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian delivered video messages, while representatives from the World Health Organization Philippines and the U.S. Embassy in Manila discussed the role of international partners in health investments.

The final discussions brought together officials from the Department of Health, WeSolve Foundation and Zuellig Family Foundation to examine policy and implementation challenges facing local health systems.

Philippine Institute for Development Studies President Dr. Philip Arnold Tuaño delivered the symposium’s synthesis and closing remarks.

The symposium highlighted primary health care, data governance, financing and long-term local health planning as key areas requiring sustained cooperation among national agencies, local governments and development partners.

Through its Sustainable Health Care program, the Unilab Foundation said it aims to help local governments build health systems capable of responding to community needs and sustaining programs beyond changes in leadership.