DOH and United Nations Join Forces
In a significant step towards improving the health and well-being of Filipinos, the Department of Health (DOH) and the United Nations (UN) reaffirmed their shared commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The focus of their renewed partnership is on universal health coverage, health equity, and building resilience to the health impacts of climate change and pandemics.
Strengthening Health Systems and Addressing Key Challenges
Secretary of Health Ted Herbosa and UN Deputy Secretary-General Ms. Amina J. Mohammed recently convened to discuss the ongoing efforts and challenges in achieving the SDGs, particularly those related to health, sanitation, and environmental sustainability. Sec. Herbosa highlighted the Philippines’ progress under SDGs #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #4 (Quality Education), which include improving healthcare access and addressing critical health issues such as maternal and child mortality, adolescent pregnancies, and child stunting.
With these pressing issues at the forefront, the DOH’s 8-Point Action Agenda aims to guide the country’s health initiatives towards the achievement of the SDGs by 2030. Among the key priorities are improving maternal and child health, strengthening climate-resilient health systems, combating both non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and infectious diseases, and investing in digital health infrastructure. These strategic interventions aim to ensure that the health system remains robust in the face of increasing climate risks and other emerging health threats.
A Call for Transformative Action
As the UN Deputy Secretary-General pointed out, the global deadline to achieve the SDGs is fast approaching, with only five years left to meet the ambitious targets. Ms. Mohammed stressed that transformative action is crucial in addressing the challenges the Philippines faces in advancing health and sustainability. Central to these efforts is leveraging technology and strengthening financing mechanisms that can support long-term health goals. She underscored the importance of creating a policy and regulatory environment conducive to both local and international investments that align with the scale and complexity of the SDGs.
“A balanced financial structure with mechanisms designed for long-term, meaningful progress is crucial for the success of the SDG agenda,” said Ms. Mohammed, emphasizing the need for sustainable financial systems to fuel the transformation of health and other sectors in the Philippines.
Moving Forward Together: A Healthier, More Resilient Future
Secretary Herbosa echoed the importance of the DOH’s partnership with the UN, saying, “This partnership with the UN enables us to scale our efforts in addressing social determinants of health, promoting preventive care, and advancing toward a healthier, more resilient Philippines.” He further emphasized the Department’s focus on strengthening health infrastructure, addressing both the root causes and consequences of health inequities, and promoting health initiatives that are sustainable in the long run.
The collaboration between the Philippines and the United Nations marks a critical moment in the nation’s journey towards the SDGs. With a focused roadmap that includes targeted health interventions, reinforced institutional frameworks, and strategic financing, the partnership aims to drive substantial progress towards the Philippines’ goal of a more equitable, resilient, and healthier future for all Filipinos.
Overall, DOH aims to enlighten Filipinos to be resilient with the help of other governmental organizations against the climate related effects to our health. They need the cooperation of everyone so that they can accomplish and lessen the cases of sickness from our changing climate due to global warming.
By working together, the DOH and UN are not only addressing immediate health challenges but also laying the foundation for long-term solutions that will benefit future generations. As both institutions prepare for the final push towards 2030, they remain committed to ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in the pursuit of universal health and sustainability.
