DoH, WHO discuss pandemic thrusts

The Philippines and the World Health Organization (WHO) discussed negotiations on an international pandemic agreement, including provisions on pathogen access and benefit-sharing, as part of efforts to strengthen preparedness for future health emergencies.

Department of Health (DoH) Acting Secretary Edwin Mercado and WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus met during a dialogue at the WHO Western Pacific Office on Monday, 19 October.

Ghebreyesus described the meeting as fruitful, saying they discussed Philippine investments in pandemic preparedness, among other matters.

“We also discussed the importance of finalising the negotiations on Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing annex of the Pandemic Agreement,” Ghebreyesus said.

The WHO said the agreement aims to establish a legally binding international framework for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. Once negotiations are completed, it will be presented to countries for signing and ratification.

The DoH said the dialogue also covered equitable access to medical supplies through regional stockpiles and pooled procurement, as well as stronger regulatory systems.

The officials also discussed strengthening Universal Health Care and national health emergency preparedness, advancing disease control and reaching zero-dose children, improving hypertension, tobacco and mental health programs, and expanding international health partnerships and cooperation.

“This dialogue reaffirms the Philippines’ commitment to building an inclusive and globally aligned health system for every Filipino,” the department said.