The Philippines ranks among the five most traffic-congested countries in Asia, with Metro Manila and Davao City consistently listed among the world\u2019s most congested urban centers. For millions of Filipinos, traffic is not just a daily inconvenience \u2014 it is now a growing public health concern.
\nMetro Manila commuters spend an average of 120 to 145 hours a year stuck in traffic, equivalent to losing nearly an entire workweek annually while sitting on the road. Beyond lost time and productivity, prolonged exposure to traffic congestion can silently affect cardiovascular and respiratory health.
\nA 2017 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) estimated that traffic congestion in Metro Manila costs the Philippine economy at least P3.5 billion daily. Without major interventions, these losses could rise to P5.4 billion per day by 2035.
\nYet the impact of traffic extends beyond economics. Scientific evidence increasingly links traffic-related air pollution, chronic noise exposure, stress, and sedentary behavior to elevated risks of cardiovascular and lung disease.
\nA meta-analysis published in the Journal of Urban Health found that long-term exposure to traffic noise is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and stroke. Another review published in Circulation Research, the official journal of the American Heart Association, showed that chronic exposure to traffic noise activates stress pathways that raise blood pressure and heart rate, accelerating cardiovascular damage over time.
\nSimilarly, the UK Biobank Study involving over 500,000 participants found that residential road traffic noise was associated with elevated blood pressure, inflammation markers, and self-reported hypertension \u2014 all established cardiovascular risk factors. Published in the European Heart Journal, the study reinforces growing evidence that traffic-related stressors can have long-term health consequences.
\nA cohort study by Italian researchers published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health further revealed that combined exposure to vehicular traffic noise and air pollution significantly increased cardiovascular disease risk even after accounting for socioeconomic factors such as age, education, and income.
\nThese findings are consistent with local studies conducted in the Philippines. Research involving Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic enforcers found that cumulative exposure to black carbon \u2014 a pollutant strongly associated with vehicular emissions \u2014 was linked to higher blood pressure levels. The study, conducted by researchers from the University of the Philippines-Manila, University of Santo Tomas, St. Luke\u2019s College of Medicine-William H. Quasha Memorial, and the Professional Regulation Commission, was also published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
\nThe study noted that the effects were more pronounced among female traffic enforcers and individuals classified as \u201cever smokers,\u201d suggesting that certain populations may be more vulnerable to the cardiovascular effects of traffic-related pollution. Researchers also found that inflammation triggered by black carbon and heavy metals may contribute to long-term heart damage.
\nThe findings are particularly important because they provide one of the first localized datasets on occupational exposure to traffic-related pollutants in Metro Manila. They also underscore the need for stronger protective measures such as masks, health monitoring, and work rotation schedules for traffic enforcers and other highly exposed workers.
\nTraffic-related pollutants likewise pose serious risks to respiratory health. A study by researchers from the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health found that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter was associated with increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among MMDA traffic enforcers.
\nAs the country observes Road Safety Month, it is important to remember that protecting road users also means protecting them from the hidden health risks associated with traffic congestion.
\nSeveral practical measures can help reduce exposure to traffic-related stressors such as air pollution, noise, and psychological strain. During heavy traffic, keeping car windows closed and using air-conditioning on recirculation mode may help limit the intake of exhaust fumes. Carpooling or ridesharing can also help reduce the number of vehicles on the road and lower collective exposure to pollution.
\nWhen using public transportation, wearing a properly fitted KN95 or N95 mask can help protect against particulate pollution and airborne infectious diseases. Listening to calming music and practicing stress-management techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises during commutes may also help regulate blood pressure and reduce stress.
\nMaintaining a healthy lifestyle can further help buffer the negative effects of traffic-related stressors. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, moderation in alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking can strengthen cardiovascular and respiratory resilience.
\nVaccination also plays an important role in protecting vulnerable individuals. Respiratory infections such as influenza and pneumococcal disease can worsen cardiovascular conditions and increase the risk of serious complications. Flu and pneumococcal vaccination can help reduce illness severity, prevent complications, and protect vulnerable populations.
\nAddressing traffic congestion ultimately requires long-term investments in transportation systems, urban planning, and environmental protection. But while broader solutions are being pursued, individuals can still take meaningful steps to protect themselves from the hidden health costs of life on congested roads.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "The Philippines ranks among the five most traffic-congested countries in Asia, with Metro Manila and Davao City consistently listed among the world\u2019s most congested urban centers. For millions of Filipinos, traffic is not just a daily inconvenience \u2014 it is now a growing public health concern.\nMetro Manila commuters spend an average of 120 to 145 hours a year stuck in traffic, equivalent to losing nearly an entire workweek annually while sitting on the road. Beyond lost time and productivity, prolonged exposure to traffic congestion can silently affect cardiovascular and respiratory health.\nA 2017 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) estimated that traffic congestion in Metro Manila costs the Philippine economy at least P3.5 billion daily. Without major interventions, these losses could rise to P5.4 billion per day by 2035.\nYet the impact of traffic extends beyond economics. Scientific evidence increasingly links traffic-related air pollution, chronic noise exposure, stress, and sedentary behavior to elevated risks of cardiovascular and lung disease.\nA meta-analysis published in the Journal of Urban Health found that long-term exposure to traffic noise is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and stroke. Another review published in Circulation Research, the official journal of the American Heart Association, showed that chronic exposure to traffic noise activates stress pathways that raise blood pressure and heart rate, accelerating cardiovascular damage over time.\nSimilarly, the UK Biobank Study involving over 500,000 participants found that residential road traffic noise was associated with elevated blood pressure, inflammation markers, and self-reported hypertension \u2014 all established cardiovascular risk factors. Published in the European Heart Journal, the study reinforces growing evidence that traffic-related stressors can have long-term health consequences.\nA cohort study by Italian researchers published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health further revealed that combined exposure to vehicular traffic noise and air pollution significantly increased cardiovascular disease risk even after accounting for socioeconomic factors such as age, education, and income.\nThese findings are consistent with local studies conducted in the Philippines. Research involving Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic enforcers found that cumulative exposure to black carbon \u2014 a pollutant strongly associated with vehicular emissions \u2014 was linked to higher blood pressure levels. The study, conducted by researchers from the University of the Philippines-Manila, University of Santo Tomas, St. Luke\u2019s College of Medicine-William H. Quasha Memorial, and the Professional Regulation Commission, was also published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.\nThe study noted that the effects were more pronounced among female traffic enforcers and individuals classified as \u201cever smokers,\u201d suggesting that certain populations may be more vulnerable to the cardiovascular effects of traffic-related pollution. Researchers also found that inflammation triggered by black carbon and heavy metals may contribute to long-term heart damage.\nThe findings are particularly important because they provide one of the first localized datasets on occupational exposure to traffic-related pollutants in Metro Manila. They also underscore the need for stronger protective measures such as masks, health monitoring, and work rotation schedules for traffic enforcers and other highly exposed workers.\nTraffic-related pollutants likewise pose serious risks to respiratory health. A study by researchers from the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health found that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter was associated with increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among MMDA traffic enforcers.\nAs the country observes Road Safety Month, it is important to remember that protecting road users also means protecting them from the hidden health risks associated with traffic congestion.\nSeveral practical measures can help reduce exposure to traffic-related stressors such as air pollution, noise, and psychological strain. During heavy traffic, keeping car windows closed and using air-conditioning on recirculation mode may help limit the intake of exhaust fumes. Carpooling or ridesharing can also help reduce the number of vehicles on the road and lower collective exposure to pollution.\nWhen using public transportation, wearing a properly fitted KN95 or N95 mask can help protect against particulate pollution and airborne infectious diseases. Listening to calming music and practicing stress-management techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises during commutes may also help regulate blood pressure and reduce stress.\nMaintaining a healthy lifestyle can further help buffer the negative effects of traffic-related stressors. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, moderation in alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking can strengthen cardiovascular and respiratory resilience.\nVaccination also plays an important role in protecting vulnerable individuals. Respiratory infections such as influenza and pneumococcal disease can worsen cardiovascular conditions and increase the risk of serious complications. Flu and pneumococcal vaccination can help reduce illness severity, prevent complications, and protect vulnerable populations.\nAddressing traffic congestion ultimately requires long-term investments in transportation systems, urban planning, and environmental protection. But while broader solutions are being pursued, individuals can still take meaningful steps to protect themselves from the hidden health costs of life on congested roads. \n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-05-18T00:02:27+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-05-17T19:19:32+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/edsa-bus-carousel.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Editors' Picks", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=748585", "url": "/opinion/2026/05/11/748585/a-contained-hantavirus-outbreak-and-lessons-for-the-world/", "title": "A contained hantavirus outbreak, and lessons for the world", "content_html": "As of last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed five hantavirus infections, including three deaths, linked to the Dutch-flagged cruise ship MV Hondius, which sailed from Argentina on April 1 en route to Cabo Verde in West Africa. The WHO was first notified of the suspected cases on May 2.
\nNoting that the incubation period for hantavirus infection typically ranges from one to eight weeks, the agency said additional cases may still be reported. The virus involved has been identified as the Andes variant, the only hantavirus species known to be capable of limited person-to-person transmission, usually associated with close and prolonged contact.
\nWhile acknowledging the cluster of cases as a serious incident, global health authorities assured the public that the outbreak is unlikely to spark a pandemic and that the overall public health risk remains low. \u201cThis is not coronavirus, and not the start of a COVID pandemic,\u201d said Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, director of the WHO\u2019s Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Threat Management.
\nThe WHO has deployed an expert on board the ship to support a comprehensive medical assessment of passengers and crew, while gathering critical information to evaluate potential exposure risks. The mission is being supported by physicians from the Netherlands and an expert from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Meanwhile, the Philippines\u2019 Department of Health (DoH) has likewise reported that none of the 38 Filipino crew members aboard the ship is exhibiting symptoms of hantavirus infection.
\nThe WHO also arranged the shipment of 2,500 diagnostic kits from Argentina to laboratories in five countries to strengthen their testing capacity. It is developing operational guidance for the safe and respectful disembarkation and onward travel of passengers and crew upon arrival. The priorities are clear, and these are to ensure that affected patients receive appropriate care, protect remaining passengers and crew, and prevent any further spread of infection.
\nAlthough the outbreak appears contained, the incident serves as a reminder that infectious disease threats can emerge unexpectedly and spread rapidly across borders in an interconnected world.
\nHantaviruses are rodent-borne viruses that can cause severe and sometimes fatal disease in humans. People usually become infected through contact with infected rodents or exposure to their urine, droppings, or saliva. In Asia, hantaviruses are commonly associated with hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), which may initially present with fever, headache, muscle pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. In severe cases, patients may develop low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, and kidney failure.
\nWhile there is no specific cure for hantavirus diseases, early supportive medical care significantly improves survival. This includes close monitoring and management of respiratory, cardiac, and kidney complications.
\nPreventing infection largely depends on reducing contact between people and infected rodents. Homes and workplaces should be kept clean, openings that allow rodents to enter buildings should be sealed, and food should be stored securely. Safe cleaning practices in rodent-contaminated areas are likewise important. Wet contaminated surfaces with disinfectant before cleaning to avoid stirring virus particles into the air.
\nThe swift and coordinated response to the cruise ship incident underscores the importance of global cooperation, preparedness, and innovation. In particular, the International Health Regulations (IHR) enabled close coordination among the WHO and multiple countries involved in the response. The IHR serves as a global early warning framework that requires countries to report certain outbreaks while helping minimize unnecessary disruptions to international travel and trade.
\nThe IHR was amended in 2022 and 2024 to strengthen global emergency response mechanisms. The innovative pharmaceutical industry, represented by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), actively participates in discussions surrounding the implementation of these amendments, with the shared goal of improving surveillance, preparedness, and the timely declaration and management of public health emergencies.
\nWhile the hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship is unlikely to become a pandemic, many health experts continue to warn that pandemics will remain a persistent global threat as pathogens can spread rapidly across countries. According to risk modeling estimates from data and analytics company Airfinity, there is a 27.5% chance of a pandemic similar to COVID-19 occurring within the next 10 years.
\nThe COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the importance of preparedness and collaboration among governments, regulators, healthcare systems, scientists, and the biopharmaceutical industry. Medicines and vaccines developed through these partnerships were essential in cushioning the impact of the pandemic and saving millions of lives worldwide.
\nThe innovative biopharmaceutical industry has since translated lessons learned from COVID-19 into concrete commitments. Vaccine innovators and manufacturers jointly endorsed the Berlin Declaration, pledging to reserve a portion of real-time production of vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics for priority populations in lower-income countries. The industry has also proposed additional measures to strengthen equitable access to essential medical countermeasures before and during future pandemics.
\nThe biopharmaceutical industry remains committed to supporting stronger pandemic preparedness. One important goal is the development of safe and effective pandemic products within 100 days of a new pandemic declaration. Another is continued collaboration with governments, regulators, multilateral institutions, and healthcare stakeholders to help ensure equitable access to medicines and vaccines, particularly for vulnerable populations.
\nIn an increasingly interconnected world, preparedness, cooperation, and innovation will remain among our strongest defenses against future health emergencies.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "As of last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed five hantavirus infections, including three deaths, linked to the Dutch-flagged cruise ship MV Hondius, which sailed from Argentina on April 1 en route to Cabo Verde in West Africa. The WHO was first notified of the suspected cases on May 2.\nNoting that the incubation period for hantavirus infection typically ranges from one to eight weeks, the agency said additional cases may still be reported. The virus involved has been identified as the Andes variant, the only hantavirus species known to be capable of limited person-to-person transmission, usually associated with close and prolonged contact.\nWhile acknowledging the cluster of cases as a serious incident, global health authorities assured the public that the outbreak is unlikely to spark a pandemic and that the overall public health risk remains low. \u201cThis is not coronavirus, and not the start of a COVID pandemic,\u201d said Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, director of the WHO\u2019s Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Threat Management.\nThe WHO has deployed an expert on board the ship to support a comprehensive medical assessment of passengers and crew, while gathering critical information to evaluate potential exposure risks. The mission is being supported by physicians from the Netherlands and an expert from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Meanwhile, the Philippines\u2019 Department of Health (DoH) has likewise reported that none of the 38 Filipino crew members aboard the ship is exhibiting symptoms of hantavirus infection.\nThe WHO also arranged the shipment of 2,500 diagnostic kits from Argentina to laboratories in five countries to strengthen their testing capacity. It is developing operational guidance for the safe and respectful disembarkation and onward travel of passengers and crew upon arrival. The priorities are clear, and these are to ensure that affected patients receive appropriate care, protect remaining passengers and crew, and prevent any further spread of infection.\nAlthough the outbreak appears contained, the incident serves as a reminder that infectious disease threats can emerge unexpectedly and spread rapidly across borders in an interconnected world.\nHantaviruses are rodent-borne viruses that can cause severe and sometimes fatal disease in humans. People usually become infected through contact with infected rodents or exposure to their urine, droppings, or saliva. In Asia, hantaviruses are commonly associated with hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), which may initially present with fever, headache, muscle pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. In severe cases, patients may develop low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, and kidney failure.\nWhile there is no specific cure for hantavirus diseases, early supportive medical care significantly improves survival. This includes close monitoring and management of respiratory, cardiac, and kidney complications.\nPreventing infection largely depends on reducing contact between people and infected rodents. Homes and workplaces should be kept clean, openings that allow rodents to enter buildings should be sealed, and food should be stored securely. Safe cleaning practices in rodent-contaminated areas are likewise important. Wet contaminated surfaces with disinfectant before cleaning to avoid stirring virus particles into the air.\nThe swift and coordinated response to the cruise ship incident underscores the importance of global cooperation, preparedness, and innovation. In particular, the International Health Regulations (IHR) enabled close coordination among the WHO and multiple countries involved in the response. The IHR serves as a global early warning framework that requires countries to report certain outbreaks while helping minimize unnecessary disruptions to international travel and trade.\nThe IHR was amended in 2022 and 2024 to strengthen global emergency response mechanisms. The innovative pharmaceutical industry, represented by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), actively participates in discussions surrounding the implementation of these amendments, with the shared goal of improving surveillance, preparedness, and the timely declaration and management of public health emergencies.\nWhile the hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship is unlikely to become a pandemic, many health experts continue to warn that pandemics will remain a persistent global threat as pathogens can spread rapidly across countries. According to risk modeling estimates from data and analytics company Airfinity, there is a 27.5% chance of a pandemic similar to COVID-19 occurring within the next 10 years.\nThe COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the importance of preparedness and collaboration among governments, regulators, healthcare systems, scientists, and the biopharmaceutical industry. Medicines and vaccines developed through these partnerships were essential in cushioning the impact of the pandemic and saving millions of lives worldwide.\nThe innovative biopharmaceutical industry has since translated lessons learned from COVID-19 into concrete commitments. Vaccine innovators and manufacturers jointly endorsed the Berlin Declaration, pledging to reserve a portion of real-time production of vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics for priority populations in lower-income countries. The industry has also proposed additional measures to strengthen equitable access to essential medical countermeasures before and during future pandemics.\nThe biopharmaceutical industry remains committed to supporting stronger pandemic preparedness. One important goal is the development of safe and effective pandemic products within 100 days of a new pandemic declaration. Another is continued collaboration with governments, regulators, multilateral institutions, and healthcare stakeholders to help ensure equitable access to medicines and vaccines, particularly for vulnerable populations.\nIn an increasingly interconnected world, preparedness, cooperation, and innovation will remain among our strongest defenses against future health emergencies.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-05-11T00:01:53+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-05-10T18:29:40+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Hantavirus.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=746984", "url": "/opinion/2026/05/04/746984/adult-immunization-a-smart-investment-in-health-and-economic-resilience/", "title": "Adult immunization: A smart investment in health and economic resilience", "content_html": "As the Philippines marked the 50th anniversary of the Essential Program on Immunization (EPI) during World Immunization Week, it was a moment not only to celebrate progress, but to confront a critical gap: immunization across the life course.
\nEstablished in April 1976, the EPI has reduced child mortality in the country by more than 80% and helped control diseases such as polio and tetanus. This year\u2019s theme, \u201cFor every generation, vaccines work,\u201d is a timely reminder that protection should not stop in childhood. Sustaining momentum requires closing immunization gaps across all age groups through stronger policies, improved vaccine confidence, resilient supply chains, and sustained public and private investment, especially as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt global health systems.
\nThis is particularly urgent as the Philippines moves toward an aging society. By 2030, an estimated 8.5 million Filipinos or around 7% of the population, will be aged 65 and older. At the same time, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions already account for 68% of deaths nationwide.
\nFor older adults and those living with NCDs, infections are not just short-term illnesses as they can accelerate physical and cognitive decline, leading to frailty, disability, and loss of independence. The consequences ripple outward such as longer hospital stays, delayed discharges, overstretched health workers, and rising system costs. These pressures compound an already burdened healthcare system facing demographic shifts and fiscal constraints.
\nThe financial toll is equally significant. Filipino households still shoulder nearly half of total health expenditures through out-of-pocket payments. When infections strike, they drive up medical costs, reduce productivity, and strain both family finances and national resources.
\nVaccination offers a proven, cost-effective solution. Adult immunization helps prevent disease, reduce complications, and preserve functional independence, allowing individuals to remain active in work, caregiving, and community life. For example, influenza vaccination has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks by up to 66% among individuals with cardiovascular disease.
\nThe World Health Organization and the World Federation of Public Health Associations advocate a life-course approach to immunization, recognizing that vaccines are not only tools for child survival, but essential enablers of healthy aging.
\nThe benefits extend well beyond individual protection. For healthcare systems, higher adult vaccination coverage reduces patient load, preserves critical resources, and strengthens resilience. For society, it lowers transmission and protects vulnerable populations. For the economy, the returns are substantial. Studies show that immunization can yield up to 19 times return on investment by safeguarding productivity, reducing healthcare costs, and supporting economic stability.
\nRealizing these benefits requires coordinated, multi-sectoral action. Adult immunization must be elevated to equal priority as childhood vaccination. It should be recognized not as a cost, but as a strategic investment in long-term health and economic security.
\nEncouragingly, important steps are already underway. Under Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, the Department of Health, in partnership with local government units, provides free pneumococcal and influenza vaccines to eligible senior citizens. Legislative proposals are also advancing to expand adult immunization benefits under PhilHealth, enabling broader access across both public and private facilities.
\nAccess is further improving through policy reforms. The Pharmacy Law authorizes trained pharmacists to administer adult vaccines approved by the Food and Drug Administration, helping bring vaccination services closer to communities.
\nThe Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) and its members continue to support these efforts through sustained partnerships. Campaigns such as \u201cIBA ang BAKUNADO,\u201d alongside member initiatives, promote protection at every stage of life through innovation, collaboration, and continued investment in vaccines.
\nBuilding trust remains essential. PHAP works closely with the Philippine Medical Association and the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination to strengthen public awareness, address vaccine hesitancy, and ensure Filipinos have access to accurate, science-based information.
\nAs the country looks ahead, the case for adult immunization is clear. Vaccines protect not only individuals, but also families, communities, and the broader economy. Investing in immunization across the life course is one of the most practical and high-impact strategies to build a healthier, more resilient Philippines today and for generations to come.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "As the Philippines marked the 50th anniversary of the Essential Program on Immunization (EPI) during World Immunization Week, it was a moment not only to celebrate progress, but to confront a critical gap: immunization across the life course.\nEstablished in April 1976, the EPI has reduced child mortality in the country by more than 80% and helped control diseases such as polio and tetanus. This year\u2019s theme, \u201cFor every generation, vaccines work,\u201d is a timely reminder that protection should not stop in childhood. Sustaining momentum requires closing immunization gaps across all age groups through stronger policies, improved vaccine confidence, resilient supply chains, and sustained public and private investment, especially as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt global health systems.\nThis is particularly urgent as the Philippines moves toward an aging society. By 2030, an estimated 8.5 million Filipinos or around 7% of the population, will be aged 65 and older. At the same time, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions already account for 68% of deaths nationwide.\nFor older adults and those living with NCDs, infections are not just short-term illnesses as they can accelerate physical and cognitive decline, leading to frailty, disability, and loss of independence. The consequences ripple outward such as longer hospital stays, delayed discharges, overstretched health workers, and rising system costs. These pressures compound an already burdened healthcare system facing demographic shifts and fiscal constraints.\nThe financial toll is equally significant. Filipino households still shoulder nearly half of total health expenditures through out-of-pocket payments. When infections strike, they drive up medical costs, reduce productivity, and strain both family finances and national resources.\nVaccination offers a proven, cost-effective solution. Adult immunization helps prevent disease, reduce complications, and preserve functional independence, allowing individuals to remain active in work, caregiving, and community life. For example, influenza vaccination has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks by up to 66% among individuals with cardiovascular disease.\nThe World Health Organization and the World Federation of Public Health Associations advocate a life-course approach to immunization, recognizing that vaccines are not only tools for child survival, but essential enablers of healthy aging.\nThe benefits extend well beyond individual protection. For healthcare systems, higher adult vaccination coverage reduces patient load, preserves critical resources, and strengthens resilience. For society, it lowers transmission and protects vulnerable populations. For the economy, the returns are substantial. Studies show that immunization can yield up to 19 times return on investment by safeguarding productivity, reducing healthcare costs, and supporting economic stability.\nRealizing these benefits requires coordinated, multi-sectoral action. Adult immunization must be elevated to equal priority as childhood vaccination. It should be recognized not as a cost, but as a strategic investment in long-term health and economic security.\nEncouragingly, important steps are already underway. Under Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, the Department of Health, in partnership with local government units, provides free pneumococcal and influenza vaccines to eligible senior citizens. Legislative proposals are also advancing to expand adult immunization benefits under PhilHealth, enabling broader access across both public and private facilities.\nAccess is further improving through policy reforms. The Pharmacy Law authorizes trained pharmacists to administer adult vaccines approved by the Food and Drug Administration, helping bring vaccination services closer to communities.\nThe Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) and its members continue to support these efforts through sustained partnerships. Campaigns such as \u201cIBA ang BAKUNADO,\u201d alongside member initiatives, promote protection at every stage of life through innovation, collaboration, and continued investment in vaccines.\nBuilding trust remains essential. PHAP works closely with the Philippine Medical Association and the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination to strengthen public awareness, address vaccine hesitancy, and ensure Filipinos have access to accurate, science-based information.\nAs the country looks ahead, the case for adult immunization is clear. Vaccines protect not only individuals, but also families, communities, and the broader economy. Investing in immunization across the life course is one of the most practical and high-impact strategies to build a healthier, more resilient Philippines today and for generations to come.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-05-04T00:01:30+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-05-03T18:35:16+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/old-asian-senior-couple-wearing-face-mask-virus-protection-happiness-cheerful-show-bandage-injection-covid19-vaccinated-with-hand-gesture-point-confident-virus-protection.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=745417", "url": "/opinion/2026/04/27/745417/turning-medicine-policy-into-real-patient-access/", "title": "Turning medicine policy into real patient access", "content_html": "High out-of-pocket expenses for medicines remain a major barrier to healthcare access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and often lead to financial hardship. Out-of-pocket health spending refers to direct, non-reimbursable payments made by individuals at the point of care covering medicines, consultations, and hospital services that are not fully covered by insurance.
\nIn many LMICs, 50% to 90% of medicine costs are paid out-of-pocket due to gaps in financial protection. In the Philippines, households shouldered 44.4% of total health spending in 2023, with medicines accounting for roughly 46% of out-of-pocket expenditures. These figures underscore a persistent structural challenge: access to treatment remains closely tied to a patient\u2019s ability to pay.
\nFor individuals living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer and diabetes, this burden is particularly acute. Managing chronic conditions often requires long-term and continuous treatment, making affordability a decisive factor in health outcomes. This reality reinforces the need for sustained investment in primary healthcare as a cornerstone of financial protection.
\nPrimary healthcare plays a critical role in reducing overall health expenditures. By providing accessible, preventive, and cost-effective services at the community level, it minimizes the need for expensive hospitalizations and specialized care. Early detection, timely intervention, and coordinated management of chronic diseases not only improve patient outcomes but also generate significant savings for both households and the health system.
\nThe Philippine government has taken important steps to improve affordability. The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law and the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act have exempted selected medicines, including those for cancer, hypertension, diabetes, mental health conditions, high cholesterol, kidney disease, and tuberculosis, from the 12% value-added tax (VAT). These measures provide immediate price relief for patients and represent a practical approach to easing financial barriers.
\nThe Universal Health Care (UHC) Act further strengthens financial protection by institutionalizing access to essential health services, including medicines. Automatic enrollment in PhilHealth ensures that all Filipinos are eligible for benefit packages that reduce out-of-pocket costs.
\nA key development under UHC is the rollout of expanded outpatient benefit packages. In July 2025, PhilHealth launched the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program para Malayo sa Sakit (YAKAP), which consolidates primary care services into a more comprehensive and prevention-focused package. By emphasizing early detection and routine care, YAKAP aims to reduce reliance on hospital-based treatment.
\nUnder the program, members can access preventive consultations, laboratory services, essential medicines, and selected cancer screenings through accredited primary care providers nationwide. By bringing services closer to communities, YAKAP helps bridge long-standing gaps in access while reducing the financial burden on patients.
\nAt the same time, strengthening the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) process is critical to ensuring timely access to innovative medicines. The HTA Council plays a vital role in evaluating the value of health technologies and informing inclusion in the Philippine National Formulary (PNF), which enables government procurement. However, delays in HTA processes and limitations in local data can slow access to new, life-saving treatments.
\nAddressing these challenges requires a more agile and responsive system. Streamlining HTA processes, enhancing data availability, and exploring complementary procurement pathways, including mechanisms that allow access to medicines outside the PNF, can help ensure that patients benefit from medical innovation without unnecessary delay.
\nEqually important is the need to strengthen procurement systems. Fragmented and short-term purchasing practices often result in higher costs and inconsistent supply. In contrast, consolidated and strategic procurement enables the government to leverage economies of scale, secure better pricing, and ensure a more stable supply of medicines and vaccines. Investing in efficient procurement is not only fiscally prudent as it is essential to safeguarding public health.
\nThe biopharmaceutical industry remains a committed partner in expanding access. Through global collaborations, capacity-building initiatives, and patient access programs, the industry supports health system strengthening in LMICs. Since 2000, substantial quantities of medicines have been donated to support underserved populations, reflecting a shared commitment to equitable healthcare.
\nReducing out-of-pocket expenses for medicines lies at the very heart of public health and economic resilience. No individual should be forced to choose between life-saving treatment and basic necessities such as food or shelter. Achieving this goal requires sustained collaboration among government, the private sector, and the broader healthcare community to build a system where access to medicines is not determined by income, but guaranteed as a fundamental right.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "High out-of-pocket expenses for medicines remain a major barrier to healthcare access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and often lead to financial hardship. Out-of-pocket health spending refers to direct, non-reimbursable payments made by individuals at the point of care covering medicines, consultations, and hospital services that are not fully covered by insurance.\nIn many LMICs, 50% to 90% of medicine costs are paid out-of-pocket due to gaps in financial protection. In the Philippines, households shouldered 44.4% of total health spending in 2023, with medicines accounting for roughly 46% of out-of-pocket expenditures. These figures underscore a persistent structural challenge: access to treatment remains closely tied to a patient\u2019s ability to pay.\nFor individuals living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer and diabetes, this burden is particularly acute. Managing chronic conditions often requires long-term and continuous treatment, making affordability a decisive factor in health outcomes. This reality reinforces the need for sustained investment in primary healthcare as a cornerstone of financial protection.\nPrimary healthcare plays a critical role in reducing overall health expenditures. By providing accessible, preventive, and cost-effective services at the community level, it minimizes the need for expensive hospitalizations and specialized care. Early detection, timely intervention, and coordinated management of chronic diseases not only improve patient outcomes but also generate significant savings for both households and the health system.\nThe Philippine government has taken important steps to improve affordability. The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law and the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act have exempted selected medicines, including those for cancer, hypertension, diabetes, mental health conditions, high cholesterol, kidney disease, and tuberculosis, from the 12% value-added tax (VAT). These measures provide immediate price relief for patients and represent a practical approach to easing financial barriers.\nThe Universal Health Care (UHC) Act further strengthens financial protection by institutionalizing access to essential health services, including medicines. Automatic enrollment in PhilHealth ensures that all Filipinos are eligible for benefit packages that reduce out-of-pocket costs.\nA key development under UHC is the rollout of expanded outpatient benefit packages. In July 2025, PhilHealth launched the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program para Malayo sa Sakit (YAKAP), which consolidates primary care services into a more comprehensive and prevention-focused package. By emphasizing early detection and routine care, YAKAP aims to reduce reliance on hospital-based treatment.\nUnder the program, members can access preventive consultations, laboratory services, essential medicines, and selected cancer screenings through accredited primary care providers nationwide. By bringing services closer to communities, YAKAP helps bridge long-standing gaps in access while reducing the financial burden on patients.\nAt the same time, strengthening the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) process is critical to ensuring timely access to innovative medicines. The HTA Council plays a vital role in evaluating the value of health technologies and informing inclusion in the Philippine National Formulary (PNF), which enables government procurement. However, delays in HTA processes and limitations in local data can slow access to new, life-saving treatments.\nAddressing these challenges requires a more agile and responsive system. Streamlining HTA processes, enhancing data availability, and exploring complementary procurement pathways, including mechanisms that allow access to medicines outside the PNF, can help ensure that patients benefit from medical innovation without unnecessary delay.\nEqually important is the need to strengthen procurement systems. Fragmented and short-term purchasing practices often result in higher costs and inconsistent supply. In contrast, consolidated and strategic procurement enables the government to leverage economies of scale, secure better pricing, and ensure a more stable supply of medicines and vaccines. Investing in efficient procurement is not only fiscally prudent as it is essential to safeguarding public health.\nThe biopharmaceutical industry remains a committed partner in expanding access. Through global collaborations, capacity-building initiatives, and patient access programs, the industry supports health system strengthening in LMICs. Since 2000, substantial quantities of medicines have been donated to support underserved populations, reflecting a shared commitment to equitable healthcare.\nReducing out-of-pocket expenses for medicines lies at the very heart of public health and economic resilience. No individual should be forced to choose between life-saving treatment and basic necessities such as food or shelter. Achieving this goal requires sustained collaboration among government, the private sector, and the broader healthcare community to build a system where access to medicines is not determined by income, but guaranteed as a fundamental right. \n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-04-27T00:01:49+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-04-26T18:07:58+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Pharmacy-paper-bag-and-medicine.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=743940", "url": "/opinion/2026/04/20/743940/building-a-future-ready-health-workforce-through-upskilling/", "title": "Building a future-ready health workforce through upskilling", "content_html": "As the country marks World Health Worker Week, it is fitting to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of Filipino healthcare workers, scientists, and researchers who serve as the backbone of our health system. Beyond recognition, however, is a more urgent imperative which is investing in their continuous development. Upskilling health professionals and researchers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like the Philippines, is critical to strengthening health systems, advancing innovation, and ensuring equitable access to quality care.
\nHealthcare is evolving at an unprecedented pace. New therapies, diagnostics, and technologies are rapidly transforming how diseases are detected, treated, and prevented. For Filipino health professionals, keeping pace with these developments is essential. Continuous learning enhances diagnostic accuracy, improves treatment outcomes, and ensures that patients benefit from the latest medical advances. It also enables practitioners to integrate digital health tools such as telemedicine and artificial intelligence-driven diagnostics into everyday clinical practice, helping bridge gaps in access, especially in underserved and geographically isolated communities.
\nUpskilling is equally vital to the country\u2019s preparedness for health emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of a workforce that can rapidly detect, monitor, and respond to emerging infectious diseases. Strengthening laboratory, epidemiological, and surveillance capabilities among local professionals reduces response time and improves outbreak containment. A well-trained and adaptable workforce builds resilience, ensuring that the Philippines is better equipped to manage future pandemics and public health crises.
\nBeyond clinical care, upskilling plays a pivotal role in strengthening the country\u2019s research ecosystem. Empowering Filipino researchers with advanced skills enables them to conduct context-specific studies that reflect local disease burdens and population needs. This, in turn, supports evidence-based policymaking and more responsive health interventions. Building local research capacity also fosters greater self-reliance in drug development, clinical trials, and public health innovation. These are areas where global collaboration remains important, but local leadership is indispensable.
\nEqually important, sustained investment in skills development helps address the persistent challenge of brain drain. By providing clear career pathways, professional growth opportunities, and avenues for leadership, the country can retain its most talented clinicians and scientists. At the same time, it positions Filipino experts to contribute meaningfully to global health discussions, ensuring that local perspectives are represented in international policy and scientific discourse.
\nGovernment institutions have taken important steps in this direction. The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), under the Department of Science and Technology (DoST), continues to implement scholarship, fellowship, and training programs aimed at strengthening the capabilities of Filipino scientists and researchers. These initiatives focus on graduate education, research capacity-building, and institutional development, laying the groundwork for a more robust health research ecosystem.
\nComplementing these efforts is the DoST\u2019s Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program, which seeks to enhance the country\u2019s global competitiveness by accelerating the development of high-level human resources in science and technology, particularly in research and development. Meanwhile, the Commission on Higher Education launched the Higher Education Upskilling and Study for Advancement of Staff and Faculty (HUSAY) Program in December 2025, further expanding opportunities for reskilling and upskilling across the higher education sector.
\nOne of HUSAY\u2019s initial initiatives, the University of the Philippines Manila Bio-Health Education, Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Capacity Building, Optimization, and Innovation (BEACON) Program, reflects the growing importance of interdisciplinary skills. By strengthening competencies in ethics, institutional integrity, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in teaching and research, BEACON prepares educators and researchers for the evolving demands of modern healthcare and academia.
\nThe research-based pharmaceutical industry also plays a critical role in advancing capacity building. Through global partnerships, training programs, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, the industry helps strengthen research skills, regulatory understanding, and healthcare delivery systems, particularly in developing countries.
\nIn the Philippines, the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) reinforces this commitment through its Code of Practice, which is aligned with global standards and national laws. The Code ensures that engagements with healthcare professionals uphold ethical principles, preserve clinical independence, and remain firmly grounded in patient welfare.
\nPHAP member companies further demonstrate their commitment to professionalism through initiatives such as the Integrity and Proficiency Program for the Pharmaceutical Sector (IPPS), accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission. Since its inception in 2015, the program has produced close to 7,000 certified medical representatives, reflecting sustained efforts to uphold high standards of ethics and competence across the sector.
\nAs the Philippines advances its Universal Health Care agenda, investing in people must remain at the center of reform. Health systems are only as strong as the workforce that sustains them. Breakthroughs in diagnostics, innovative treatments, and effective health policies depend on professionals who are equipped with the right skills, knowledge, and values.
\nUpskilling is a strategic investment in the country\u2019s health security, economic resilience, and global competitiveness. By empowering Filipino health professionals and researchers, we not only strengthen our healthcare system but also ensure better health outcomes for every Filipino.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "As the country marks World Health Worker Week, it is fitting to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of Filipino healthcare workers, scientists, and researchers who serve as the backbone of our health system. Beyond recognition, however, is a more urgent imperative which is investing in their continuous development. Upskilling health professionals and researchers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like the Philippines, is critical to strengthening health systems, advancing innovation, and ensuring equitable access to quality care.\nHealthcare is evolving at an unprecedented pace. New therapies, diagnostics, and technologies are rapidly transforming how diseases are detected, treated, and prevented. For Filipino health professionals, keeping pace with these developments is essential. Continuous learning enhances diagnostic accuracy, improves treatment outcomes, and ensures that patients benefit from the latest medical advances. It also enables practitioners to integrate digital health tools such as telemedicine and artificial intelligence-driven diagnostics into everyday clinical practice, helping bridge gaps in access, especially in underserved and geographically isolated communities.\nUpskilling is equally vital to the country\u2019s preparedness for health emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of a workforce that can rapidly detect, monitor, and respond to emerging infectious diseases. Strengthening laboratory, epidemiological, and surveillance capabilities among local professionals reduces response time and improves outbreak containment. A well-trained and adaptable workforce builds resilience, ensuring that the Philippines is better equipped to manage future pandemics and public health crises.\nBeyond clinical care, upskilling plays a pivotal role in strengthening the country\u2019s research ecosystem. Empowering Filipino researchers with advanced skills enables them to conduct context-specific studies that reflect local disease burdens and population needs. This, in turn, supports evidence-based policymaking and more responsive health interventions. Building local research capacity also fosters greater self-reliance in drug development, clinical trials, and public health innovation. These are areas where global collaboration remains important, but local leadership is indispensable.\nEqually important, sustained investment in skills development helps address the persistent challenge of brain drain. By providing clear career pathways, professional growth opportunities, and avenues for leadership, the country can retain its most talented clinicians and scientists. At the same time, it positions Filipino experts to contribute meaningfully to global health discussions, ensuring that local perspectives are represented in international policy and scientific discourse.\nGovernment institutions have taken important steps in this direction. The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), under the Department of Science and Technology (DoST), continues to implement scholarship, fellowship, and training programs aimed at strengthening the capabilities of Filipino scientists and researchers. These initiatives focus on graduate education, research capacity-building, and institutional development, laying the groundwork for a more robust health research ecosystem.\nComplementing these efforts is the DoST\u2019s Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program, which seeks to enhance the country\u2019s global competitiveness by accelerating the development of high-level human resources in science and technology, particularly in research and development. Meanwhile, the Commission on Higher Education launched the Higher Education Upskilling and Study for Advancement of Staff and Faculty (HUSAY) Program in December 2025, further expanding opportunities for reskilling and upskilling across the higher education sector.\nOne of HUSAY\u2019s initial initiatives, the University of the Philippines Manila Bio-Health Education, Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Capacity Building, Optimization, and Innovation (BEACON) Program, reflects the growing importance of interdisciplinary skills. By strengthening competencies in ethics, institutional integrity, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in teaching and research, BEACON prepares educators and researchers for the evolving demands of modern healthcare and academia.\nThe research-based pharmaceutical industry also plays a critical role in advancing capacity building. Through global partnerships, training programs, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, the industry helps strengthen research skills, regulatory understanding, and healthcare delivery systems, particularly in developing countries.\nIn the Philippines, the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) reinforces this commitment through its Code of Practice, which is aligned with global standards and national laws. The Code ensures that engagements with healthcare professionals uphold ethical principles, preserve clinical independence, and remain firmly grounded in patient welfare.\nPHAP member companies further demonstrate their commitment to professionalism through initiatives such as the Integrity and Proficiency Program for the Pharmaceutical Sector (IPPS), accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission. Since its inception in 2015, the program has produced close to 7,000 certified medical representatives, reflecting sustained efforts to uphold high standards of ethics and competence across the sector.\nAs the Philippines advances its Universal Health Care agenda, investing in people must remain at the center of reform. Health systems are only as strong as the workforce that sustains them. Breakthroughs in diagnostics, innovative treatments, and effective health policies depend on professionals who are equipped with the right skills, knowledge, and values.\nUpskilling is a strategic investment in the country\u2019s health security, economic resilience, and global competitiveness. By empowering Filipino health professionals and researchers, we not only strengthen our healthcare system but also ensure better health outcomes for every Filipino.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-04-20T00:01:19+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-04-19T18:25:59+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/healthcare-workers-preventing-virus-quarantine-campaign-concept-smiling-asian-female-nurse-doctor-wi.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Editors' Picks", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=742247", "url": "/opinion/2026/04/13/742247/pooled-procurement-to-secure-the-countrys-medicine-supply/", "title": "Pooled procurement to secure the country\u2019s medicine supply", "content_html": "As global supply chains stretch across continents, the Philippines remains exposed to disruptions in key transit regions, particularly those affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict. These corridors are not only central to global energy flows but also to the movement of essential goods, including medicines. When instability strikes, the ripple effects are immediate. These could be procurement delays, rising costs, and if left unaddressed, reduced patient access.
\nThe Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) recognizes the potential impact of these geopolitical tensions on the availability and affordability of essential medicines. At present, member companies continue to absorb increased costs driven by higher freight rates, logistics constraints, and global market pressures. This quiet buffering role has helped maintain stability in supply and protect patients from immediate disruption.
\nBut this stability is inherently fragile.
\nPharmaceutical manufacturing operates on long lead times, often 12 to 24 months, particularly for complex biologics. What appears stable today reflects decisions and production cycles set in motion well before the current crisis. Short-term cost absorption cannot substitute for long-term resilience.
\nTo safeguard uninterrupted access to medicines, the country must move decisively toward more coordinated and strategic supply chain solutions. Central to this is stronger public-private collaboration, anchored in mechanisms that are already available and aligned with the country\u2019s Universal Health Care (UHC) framework.
\nOne such mechanism is pooled procurement.
\nBy consolidating medicine requirements across procuring entities, pooled procurement enables the country to purchase at scale, strengthening negotiating power, improving pricing efficiency, and enhancing supply security. It reduces fragmentation, minimizes competition for limited global supply, and allows the Philippines to engage manufacturers from a position of predictability and volume.
\nGlobal experience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores this advantage. Countries that demonstrated accurate demand forecasts and firm procurement commitments were prioritized in global allocation. Manufacturers are more able to allocate supply to markets that offer visibility in demand, sustainability in pricing, and consistency in regulatory processes.
\nFor pooled procurement to work effectively, however, it must be anchored in a comprehensive national demand forecast. This forecast should integrate requirements from both the public and private sectors, providing a unified and forward-looking picture of the country\u2019s needs. It must be supported by a clearly defined list of priority medicines based on national health requirements, alongside firm procurement timelines and delivery schedules.
\nEqually important is policy and regulatory alignment. An inter-agency approach across health, procurement, finance, and regulatory bodies is essential to ensure that systems work in concert. Streamlined and responsive regulatory processes will facilitate timely product availability, enabling procurement plans to translate more efficiently into actual supply on the ground.
\nPreparedness must also extend beyond procurement. Maintaining a national inventory buffer of up to six months for essential medicines would provide a critical safeguard against supply disruptions. Such a buffer allows the health system to absorb shocks, manage delays, and prevent sudden shortages. The window for action, however, is finite. Measures must be taken while global supply remains accessible, trade routes are open, and pricing conditions have not yet further escalated.
\nOperational readiness is equally vital. Prioritizing pharmaceutical shipments through green lanes at ports can reduce delays and ease congestion. Expanding cold-chain and storage capacity ensures that temperature-sensitive medicines remain viable even as transit times lengthen. Securing fuel allocation for pharmaceutical distribution further protects last-mile delivery, particularly important in an archipelagic country where logistics are inherently complex.
\nTargeted financial measures can also help mitigate the impact of global volatility. Temporary tax relief or subsidies may support companies facing elevated logistics and operating costs, while expanded value-added tax exemptions can directly ease the burden on patients. These interventions, when carefully designed, can provide critical stability during periods of disruption.
\nThe COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated both the fragility of global supply chains and the power of coordinated action. It showed that with accurate forecasting, early procurement, and strong collaboration, even unprecedented challenges can be managed. It also revealed the costs of delay and fragmentation.
\nToday\u2019s geopolitical uncertainties present a similar test. The risks are real but they remain manageable, provided that decisive, coordinated action is taken now.
\nPooled procurement offers a practical and strategic pathway to strengthen the country\u2019s resilience. By aligning demand, leveraging scale, and fostering collaboration across sectors, it can help ensure that essential medicines and vaccines remain available and accessible to all Filipinos.
\nPHAP stands ready to work closely with government, healthcare stakeholders, and patient groups to support these efforts and help secure a stable and responsive medicine supply system for the country.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "As global supply chains stretch across continents, the Philippines remains exposed to disruptions in key transit regions, particularly those affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict. These corridors are not only central to global energy flows but also to the movement of essential goods, including medicines. When instability strikes, the ripple effects are immediate. These could be procurement delays, rising costs, and if left unaddressed, reduced patient access.\nThe Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) recognizes the potential impact of these geopolitical tensions on the availability and affordability of essential medicines. At present, member companies continue to absorb increased costs driven by higher freight rates, logistics constraints, and global market pressures. This quiet buffering role has helped maintain stability in supply and protect patients from immediate disruption.\nBut this stability is inherently fragile.\nPharmaceutical manufacturing operates on long lead times, often 12 to 24 months, particularly for complex biologics. What appears stable today reflects decisions and production cycles set in motion well before the current crisis. Short-term cost absorption cannot substitute for long-term resilience.\nTo safeguard uninterrupted access to medicines, the country must move decisively toward more coordinated and strategic supply chain solutions. Central to this is stronger public-private collaboration, anchored in mechanisms that are already available and aligned with the country\u2019s Universal Health Care (UHC) framework.\nOne such mechanism is pooled procurement.\nBy consolidating medicine requirements across procuring entities, pooled procurement enables the country to purchase at scale, strengthening negotiating power, improving pricing efficiency, and enhancing supply security. It reduces fragmentation, minimizes competition for limited global supply, and allows the Philippines to engage manufacturers from a position of predictability and volume.\nGlobal experience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores this advantage. Countries that demonstrated accurate demand forecasts and firm procurement commitments were prioritized in global allocation. Manufacturers are more able to allocate supply to markets that offer visibility in demand, sustainability in pricing, and consistency in regulatory processes.\nFor pooled procurement to work effectively, however, it must be anchored in a comprehensive national demand forecast. This forecast should integrate requirements from both the public and private sectors, providing a unified and forward-looking picture of the country\u2019s needs. It must be supported by a clearly defined list of priority medicines based on national health requirements, alongside firm procurement timelines and delivery schedules.\nEqually important is policy and regulatory alignment. An inter-agency approach across health, procurement, finance, and regulatory bodies is essential to ensure that systems work in concert. Streamlined and responsive regulatory processes will facilitate timely product availability, enabling procurement plans to translate more efficiently into actual supply on the ground.\nPreparedness must also extend beyond procurement. Maintaining a national inventory buffer of up to six months for essential medicines would provide a critical safeguard against supply disruptions. Such a buffer allows the health system to absorb shocks, manage delays, and prevent sudden shortages. The window for action, however, is finite. Measures must be taken while global supply remains accessible, trade routes are open, and pricing conditions have not yet further escalated.\nOperational readiness is equally vital. Prioritizing pharmaceutical shipments through green lanes at ports can reduce delays and ease congestion. Expanding cold-chain and storage capacity ensures that temperature-sensitive medicines remain viable even as transit times lengthen. Securing fuel allocation for pharmaceutical distribution further protects last-mile delivery, particularly important in an archipelagic country where logistics are inherently complex.\nTargeted financial measures can also help mitigate the impact of global volatility. Temporary tax relief or subsidies may support companies facing elevated logistics and operating costs, while expanded value-added tax exemptions can directly ease the burden on patients. These interventions, when carefully designed, can provide critical stability during periods of disruption.\nThe COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated both the fragility of global supply chains and the power of coordinated action. It showed that with accurate forecasting, early procurement, and strong collaboration, even unprecedented challenges can be managed. It also revealed the costs of delay and fragmentation.\nToday\u2019s geopolitical uncertainties present a similar test. The risks are real but they remain manageable, provided that decisive, coordinated action is taken now.\nPooled procurement offers a practical and strategic pathway to strengthen the country\u2019s resilience. By aligning demand, leveraging scale, and fostering collaboration across sectors, it can help ensure that essential medicines and vaccines remain available and accessible to all Filipinos.\nPHAP stands ready to work closely with government, healthcare stakeholders, and patient groups to support these efforts and help secure a stable and responsive medicine supply system for the country.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-04-13T00:01:51+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-04-12T18:37:08+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/pink-and-white-medication-pill.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=740803", "url": "/opinion/2026/04/06/740803/regulatory-agility-key-to-faster-access-to-life-saving-medicines/", "title": "Regulatory agility key to faster access to life-saving medicines", "content_html": "Access to life-saving medicines often depends not only on scientific breakthroughs, but on how quickly and efficiently regulatory systems can evaluate and approve them.
\nNational regulatory authorities (NRAs) such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) play a vital role in safeguarding public health. They ensure that medicines, vaccines, and medical devices meet stringent standards of safety, efficacy, and quality before and after reaching the market. Without these safeguards, patients would be exposed to unsafe or ineffective products, and trust in healthcare systems would erode.
\nAt the same time, modern healthcare demands more than protection as it requires speed, adaptability, and global coordination. The research-based pharmaceutical industry works closely with NRAs to strengthen regulatory systems, accelerate access to innovative therapies, promote reliance on trusted regulatory decisions, and maintain the highest standards of quality and safety. These efforts include addressing bottlenecks, harmonizing standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Documentation Practices (GDP), and improving preparedness for public health emergencies.
\nThe COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated what is possible when regulatory systems evolve. NRAs and the biopharmaceutical industry adopted flexible and iterative approaches to accelerate the development, evaluation, authorization, and distribution of vaccines and diagnostics. What once took years was achieved in record time, without compromising safety.
\nThese regulatory agilities included the use of digital tools, decentralized clinical trials, and rolling reviews of data. Equally important was the unprecedented level of collaboration among regulators, industry, and international platforms such as the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). This alignment enabled faster decision-making and more efficient deployment of critical health technologies.
\nA key enabler of this speed was regulatory reliance. Under this approach, one regulatory authority considers and gives significant weight to the scientific assessments or approvals of another trusted authority or institution, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), while maintaining its own independent decision-making.
\nA notable example was the WHO Emergency Use Listing (EUL), a risk-based mechanism used during public health emergencies to evaluate unlicensed vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Recognition of the WHO EUL allowed countries to expedite national authorizations, make efficient use of limited regulatory resources, avoid duplication, and accelerate patient access to COVID-19 vaccines.
\n\u201cTo ensure the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and RT-PCR test kits in the country during the pandemic, we worked closely with the Philippine FDA, the Department of Health, and embassies of several countries to expedite regulatory processes and navigate border closures,\u201d said Dr. Diana Edralin, president of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP).
\nDr. Edralin emphasized that ensuring Filipinos have timely and sustained access to quality medicines remains a key priority, requiring close collaboration between government and industry.
\n\u201cEnhancing access to innovative medicines in the country requires a dynamic, resilient, and responsive regulatory system. This is why PHAP promotes the adoption of global best practices in pharmaceutical regulation from Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia,\u201d she added.
\nThe lessons from the pandemic are clear. However, regulatory flexibility should not be limited to emergencies. Applying these best practices in routine settings can significantly shorten the time it takes for patients to benefit from new therapies.
\nExpedited pathways such as Fast Track, Breakthrough Therapy, and Accelerated Approval allow faster access to medicines that address serious conditions or unmet medical needs, while maintaining rigorous safety standards. Meanwhile, the use of Electronic Common Technical Document (eCTD) formats, along with digital tools for compliance tracking and document management, can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and streamline submissions.
\nAt the regional level, the Philippines\u2019 ASEAN Chairmanship presents a strategic opportunity to advance the ASEAN Harmonization of Pharmaceutical Registration. This initiative seeks to align technical requirements and regulatory processes across member states, facilitating trade while ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of medicines.
\nKey mechanisms such as the ASEAN Common Technical Dossier (ACTD) and the ASEAN Pharmaceutical Regulatory Framework (APRF) help reduce duplication, lower regulatory costs, and enable faster access to medicines across Southeast Asia. Together, they represent an important step toward a more integrated and efficient regional regulatory system.
\nUltimately, improving access to innovative medicines requires regulatory systems that are not only robust, but also adaptive. By embracing reliance, harmonization, and digital transformation, countries like the Philippines can accelerate access to life-saving therapies while upholding the highest standards of patient safety.
\nIn doing so, regulatory excellence becomes not just a safeguard but a catalyst for better health outcomes.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "Access to life-saving medicines often depends not only on scientific breakthroughs, but on how quickly and efficiently regulatory systems can evaluate and approve them.\nNational regulatory authorities (NRAs) such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) play a vital role in safeguarding public health. They ensure that medicines, vaccines, and medical devices meet stringent standards of safety, efficacy, and quality before and after reaching the market. Without these safeguards, patients would be exposed to unsafe or ineffective products, and trust in healthcare systems would erode.\nAt the same time, modern healthcare demands more than protection as it requires speed, adaptability, and global coordination. The research-based pharmaceutical industry works closely with NRAs to strengthen regulatory systems, accelerate access to innovative therapies, promote reliance on trusted regulatory decisions, and maintain the highest standards of quality and safety. These efforts include addressing bottlenecks, harmonizing standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Documentation Practices (GDP), and improving preparedness for public health emergencies.\nThe COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated what is possible when regulatory systems evolve. NRAs and the biopharmaceutical industry adopted flexible and iterative approaches to accelerate the development, evaluation, authorization, and distribution of vaccines and diagnostics. What once took years was achieved in record time, without compromising safety.\nThese regulatory agilities included the use of digital tools, decentralized clinical trials, and rolling reviews of data. Equally important was the unprecedented level of collaboration among regulators, industry, and international platforms such as the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). This alignment enabled faster decision-making and more efficient deployment of critical health technologies.\nA key enabler of this speed was regulatory reliance. Under this approach, one regulatory authority considers and gives significant weight to the scientific assessments or approvals of another trusted authority or institution, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), while maintaining its own independent decision-making.\nA notable example was the WHO Emergency Use Listing (EUL), a risk-based mechanism used during public health emergencies to evaluate unlicensed vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Recognition of the WHO EUL allowed countries to expedite national authorizations, make efficient use of limited regulatory resources, avoid duplication, and accelerate patient access to COVID-19 vaccines.\n\u201cTo ensure the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and RT-PCR test kits in the country during the pandemic, we worked closely with the Philippine FDA, the Department of Health, and embassies of several countries to expedite regulatory processes and navigate border closures,\u201d said Dr. Diana Edralin, president of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP).\nDr. Edralin emphasized that ensuring Filipinos have timely and sustained access to quality medicines remains a key priority, requiring close collaboration between government and industry.\n\u201cEnhancing access to innovative medicines in the country requires a dynamic, resilient, and responsive regulatory system. This is why PHAP promotes the adoption of global best practices in pharmaceutical regulation from Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia,\u201d she added.\nThe lessons from the pandemic are clear. However, regulatory flexibility should not be limited to emergencies. Applying these best practices in routine settings can significantly shorten the time it takes for patients to benefit from new therapies.\nExpedited pathways such as Fast Track, Breakthrough Therapy, and Accelerated Approval allow faster access to medicines that address serious conditions or unmet medical needs, while maintaining rigorous safety standards. Meanwhile, the use of Electronic Common Technical Document (eCTD) formats, along with digital tools for compliance tracking and document management, can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and streamline submissions.\nAt the regional level, the Philippines\u2019 ASEAN Chairmanship presents a strategic opportunity to advance the ASEAN Harmonization of Pharmaceutical Registration. This initiative seeks to align technical requirements and regulatory processes across member states, facilitating trade while ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of medicines.\nKey mechanisms such as the ASEAN Common Technical Dossier (ACTD) and the ASEAN Pharmaceutical Regulatory Framework (APRF) help reduce duplication, lower regulatory costs, and enable faster access to medicines across Southeast Asia. Together, they represent an important step toward a more integrated and efficient regional regulatory system.\nUltimately, improving access to innovative medicines requires regulatory systems that are not only robust, but also adaptive. By embracing reliance, harmonization, and digital transformation, countries like the Philippines can accelerate access to life-saving therapies while upholding the highest standards of patient safety.\nIn doing so, regulatory excellence becomes not just a safeguard but a catalyst for better health outcomes.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-04-06T00:01:26+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-04-05T19:20:53+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/woman-s-hand-pours-medicine-pills-out-bottle.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=739413", "url": "/opinion/2026/03/30/739413/war-in-the-middle-east-cushioning-the-impact-on-the-countrys-medicine-supply/", "title": "War in the Middle East: Cushioning the impact on the country\u2019s medicine supply", "content_html": "A war thousands of kilometers away can quietly determine whether a patient in the Philippines receives life-saving treatment on time.
\nThe ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel is not only a geopolitical crisis, it is a global supply chain shock with direct implications for medicine availability, cost, and access. Disruptions in key trade routes, rising fuel prices, and constrained logistics capacity are reverberating across sectors, including healthcare.
\nAs the war in the Middle East enters its fifth week, timely and coordinated action will be critical to safeguard the country\u2019s medicine supply.
\nOne of the foremost recommendations put forward by Dr. Diana Edralin, president of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), is the shift to a six-month national inventory buffer for essential medicines. Given the 12- to 24-month manufacturing lead times for many pharmaceutical products, proactive and synchronized planning is essential to prevent stockouts.
\nImmediate and accurate forecasting enables both government and industry to anticipate demand for essential medicines and vaccines, and to place orders early, before supply chains become constrained. By doing so, it helps prevent stockouts during periods of global disruption. In a conflict scenario, where shipping routes may be affected and fuel costs may spike, countries with strong forecasting systems are better positioned to secure supply in advance, while others may be left competing for limited stocks. Toward this end, a formal joint forecasting process for biologics and vaccines for 2026 and 2027 should be prioritized. Strengthened government-private sector collaboration will be key to mitigating risks and ensuring supply continuity.
\nThe government may also consider institutionalizing a National Medicines Logistics Command Center to enable real-time data sharing across agencies and industry stakeholders. Such a platform can support more responsive decision-making and equitable allocation of limited supply. Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that coordinated, whole-of-system approaches are critical in managing large-scale disruptions.
\nTo help manage rising logistics costs, green-lane prioritization for pharmaceutical shipments and expedited cargo processing can reduce delays and demurrage charges. Policy options such as targeted tax relief may also be explored to offset increases in war risk insurance and air freight premiums.
\nEnsuring sufficient fuel supply is likewise critical. Approximately 800,000 liters per month are required to sustain the nationwide distribution of medicines and vaccines across the archipelago. Without reliable fuel access, supply availability at ports and warehouses may not translate into timely access for patients.
\nPolicy predictability will also be important in supporting affordability. Expanding Value-Added Tax (VAT) exemptions for medicines can help cushion patients from rising global cost pressures.
\nThe Universal Health Care (UHC) Act provides an opportunity to further strengthen resilience through pooled procurement. By aggregating demand for 2026 and 2027, the country can achieve economies of scale and improve negotiating leverage, helping to offset higher importation and logistics costs. In times of uncertainty, forecasting and pooled procurement serve as critical shock absorbers against supply disruptions and price volatility.
\nPooled procurement harnesses the strength of collective buying power by consolidating demand across purchasers. This enables bulk purchasing and strengthens negotiating leverage, ultimately helping to reduce medicine prices even amid global inflation. Evidence shows that pooled procurement can lower overall pharmaceutical costs. In a war scenario, this approach becomes even more critical, as it helps offset rising logistics and production costs.
\nUltimately, maintaining a stable medicine supply chain is not just a health concern as it is an economic and national security imperative. Reliable access to medicines sustains workforce productivity, supports disease control programs, and reduces avoidable healthcare costs. Conversely, supply disruptions can lead to treatment delays, poorer health outcomes, and higher long-term expenditures.
\nThe war in the Middle East underscores how deeply interconnected health security is with global events. In this environment, sustained collaboration between the government and the private sector is essential. By aligning policy, planning, and operational capabilities, the Philippines can build a more resilient system, one that protects access to life-saving essential medicines and vaccines even amid geopolitical uncertainty.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "A war thousands of kilometers away can quietly determine whether a patient in the Philippines receives life-saving treatment on time.\nThe ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel is not only a geopolitical crisis, it is a global supply chain shock with direct implications for medicine availability, cost, and access. Disruptions in key trade routes, rising fuel prices, and constrained logistics capacity are reverberating across sectors, including healthcare.\nAs the war in the Middle East enters its fifth week, timely and coordinated action will be critical to safeguard the country\u2019s medicine supply.\nOne of the foremost recommendations put forward by Dr. Diana Edralin, president of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), is the shift to a six-month national inventory buffer for essential medicines. Given the 12- to 24-month manufacturing lead times for many pharmaceutical products, proactive and synchronized planning is essential to prevent stockouts.\nImmediate and accurate forecasting enables both government and industry to anticipate demand for essential medicines and vaccines, and to place orders early, before supply chains become constrained. By doing so, it helps prevent stockouts during periods of global disruption. In a conflict scenario, where shipping routes may be affected and fuel costs may spike, countries with strong forecasting systems are better positioned to secure supply in advance, while others may be left competing for limited stocks. Toward this end, a formal joint forecasting process for biologics and vaccines for 2026 and 2027 should be prioritized. Strengthened government-private sector collaboration will be key to mitigating risks and ensuring supply continuity.\nThe government may also consider institutionalizing a National Medicines Logistics Command Center to enable real-time data sharing across agencies and industry stakeholders. Such a platform can support more responsive decision-making and equitable allocation of limited supply. Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that coordinated, whole-of-system approaches are critical in managing large-scale disruptions.\nTo help manage rising logistics costs, green-lane prioritization for pharmaceutical shipments and expedited cargo processing can reduce delays and demurrage charges. Policy options such as targeted tax relief may also be explored to offset increases in war risk insurance and air freight premiums.\nEnsuring sufficient fuel supply is likewise critical. Approximately 800,000 liters per month are required to sustain the nationwide distribution of medicines and vaccines across the archipelago. Without reliable fuel access, supply availability at ports and warehouses may not translate into timely access for patients.\nPolicy predictability will also be important in supporting affordability. Expanding Value-Added Tax (VAT) exemptions for medicines can help cushion patients from rising global cost pressures.\nThe Universal Health Care (UHC) Act provides an opportunity to further strengthen resilience through pooled procurement. By aggregating demand for 2026 and 2027, the country can achieve economies of scale and improve negotiating leverage, helping to offset higher importation and logistics costs. In times of uncertainty, forecasting and pooled procurement serve as critical shock absorbers against supply disruptions and price volatility.\nPooled procurement harnesses the strength of collective buying power by consolidating demand across purchasers. This enables bulk purchasing and strengthens negotiating leverage, ultimately helping to reduce medicine prices even amid global inflation. Evidence shows that pooled procurement can lower overall pharmaceutical costs. In a war scenario, this approach becomes even more critical, as it helps offset rising logistics and production costs.\nUltimately, maintaining a stable medicine supply chain is not just a health concern as it is an economic and national security imperative. Reliable access to medicines sustains workforce productivity, supports disease control programs, and reduces avoidable healthcare costs. Conversely, supply disruptions can lead to treatment delays, poorer health outcomes, and higher long-term expenditures.\nThe war in the Middle East underscores how deeply interconnected health security is with global events. In this environment, sustained collaboration between the government and the private sector is essential. By aligning policy, planning, and operational capabilities, the Philippines can build a more resilient system, one that protects access to life-saving essential medicines and vaccines even amid geopolitical uncertainty.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-03-30T00:01:46+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-30T01:25:54+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Pharmacy-paper-bag-and-medicine.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=739276", "url": "/health/2026/03/29/739276/st-lukes-bags-two-prestigious-healthcare-asia-awards/", "title": "St. Luke\u2019s bags two prestigious Healthcare Asia Awards", "content_html": "St. Luke\u2019s Medical Center (SLMC) recently received two major distinctions at the Healthcare Asia Awards 2026, recognizing its Quezon City facility and its top leadership. SLMC Quezon City was named Tertiary Hospital of the Year \u2013 Philippines, while Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Dennis P. Serrano was honored as CEO of the Year \u2013 Asia.
\n\u201cThese recognitions reflect the collective work of our people,\u201d Mr. Serrano said in a statement released Friday.
\n\u201cWe remain focused on delivering care that our patients can trust, strengthening how we serve, and continuing to lead with responsibility.\u201d
\nSLMC said the recognition reflects its sustained investment in accredited care programs, medical innovation, and patient-centered systems, which support efficient and coordinated healthcare delivery.
\nIn the past year,\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0had the chance to cover SLMC\u2019s several initiatives and milestones.
\nAmong these is the opening of a 40-bed charity ward at its Quezon City facility, providing fully free or subsidized care for patients evaluated by the hospital\u2019s social service team.
\nSLMC also completed over 2,500 robotic-assisted surgeries, reinforcing its leadership in minimally invasive procedures.
\nThe hospital also celebrated the 300th minimally invasive Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure for aortic stenosis, offering patients faster recovery and shorter hospital stays.
\nMoving ahead, SLMC earlier announced plans for a new hospital in Para\u0441aque, which will expand its reach beyond Quezon City and Global City by 2030. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "St. Luke\u2019s Medical Center (SLMC) recently received two major distinctions at the Healthcare Asia Awards 2026, recognizing its Quezon City facility and its top leadership. SLMC Quezon City was named Tertiary Hospital of the Year \u2013 Philippines, while Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Dennis P. Serrano was honored as CEO of the Year \u2013 Asia.\n\u201cThese recognitions reflect the collective work of our people,\u201d Mr. Serrano said in a statement released Friday.\n\u201cWe remain focused on delivering care that our patients can trust, strengthening how we serve, and continuing to lead with responsibility.\u201d\nSLMC said the recognition reflects its sustained investment in accredited care programs, medical innovation, and patient-centered systems, which support efficient and coordinated healthcare delivery.\nIn the past year,\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0had the chance to cover SLMC\u2019s several initiatives and milestones.\nAmong these is the opening of a 40-bed charity ward at its Quezon City facility, providing fully free or subsidized care for patients evaluated by the hospital\u2019s social service team.\nSLMC also completed over 2,500 robotic-assisted surgeries, reinforcing its leadership in minimally invasive procedures.\nThe hospital also celebrated the 300th minimally invasive Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure for aortic stenosis, offering patients faster recovery and shorter hospital stays.\nMoving ahead, SLMC earlier announced plans for a new hospital in Para\u0441aque, which will expand its reach beyond Quezon City and Global City by 2030. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-03-29T14:04:44+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-29T14:21:15+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ST-LUKES-BGC.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=737891", "url": "/opinion/2026/03/23/737891/ending-tb-requires-a-whole-of-society-approach/", "title": "Ending TB requires a whole-of-society approach", "content_html": "Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world\u2019s deadliest infectious diseases despite being preventable and, in most cases, curable. It continues to claim lives, strain health systems, and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, reminding us that progress against TB is far from complete.
\nAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Tuberculosis Report 2025, an estimated 10.7 million people fell ill with TB in 2024. Of these, 8.3 million were newly diagnosed, and 1.23 million died from the disease. Men accounted for 54% of cases, women 35%, and children 11%. These figures underscore the persistent and widespread burden of TB worldwide.
\nEvery March 24, the global community marks World TB Day. This year\u2019s theme, \u201cUnite to End Tuberculosis,\u201d highlights the urgency of collective action through prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment to finally bring this disease under control.
\nThe Philippines remains among the 30 countries with a high TB burden, which together account for 87% of global TB cases. In 2024, the country ranked third worldwide, contributing 6.8% of total cases, behind India (25%) and Indonesia (10%). This places TB firmly among the Philippines\u2019 most pressing public health challenges.
\nTB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium that spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or spits. While the disease most commonly affects the lungs, it can also involve other parts of the body such as the kidneys, brain, spine, and skin.
\nAn estimated one in four people globally carry TB bacteria in an inactive form. These individuals do not feel sick and are not contagious. However, a small proportion will go on to develop active TB disease, particularly those with weakened immune systems, including children, people living with HIV, and those with conditions such as diabetes.
\nSymptoms of TB include a prolonged cough, sometimes with blood, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. Early consultation is critical. Prompt diagnosis and treatment not only improve patient outcomes but also help prevent further transmission. Simple measures such as wearing masks, covering the mouth when coughing, and proper disposal of tissues can also reduce spread.
\nWithout treatment, nearly half of people with active TB may die. Fortunately, WHO-recommended treatment regimens, typically lasting four to six months, can cure about 90% of patients when followed properly. TB preventive treatment (TPT), meanwhile, can stop infection from progressing to active disease, especially among high-risk individuals. Completing the full course of treatment remains essential.
\nIn the Philippines, the Department of Health (DoH), in collaboration with WHO and partners, has intensified efforts to eliminate TB. A key initiative aims to screen 12 million Filipinos by 2026 under Phase 2 of the Philippine Strategic TB Elimination Plan 2025\u20132030. This strategy seeks to strengthen the entire continuum of care \u2014 from prevention and diagnosis to treatment.
\nTechnology is playing an increasingly important role. The DoH is deploying ultra-portable, AI-powered chest X-rays and WHO-recommended nucleic acid amplification tests to accelerate detection and improve diagnostic accuracy, particularly in underserved areas.
\nEncouragingly, TB preventive treatment enrollment increased by more than 50% in 2024, driven by shorter treatment regimens and expanded contact tracing. Preventive care has also been extended to contacts of drug-resistant TB cases, while children with non-severe TB are now benefiting from shorter, more patient-friendly treatment courses. Public awareness campaigns, including TPTodo caravans, continue to promote early care-seeking and treatment adherence.
\nAt the same time, the innovative pharmaceutical industry continues to invest in research and development as it works to improve diagnostics, develop more effective and shorter treatment regimens, and advance new vaccines that could transform TB prevention in the years ahead.
\nThe Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), together with the PHAPCares Foundation, remains committed to supporting national TB control efforts. Through partnerships with the DoH, local government units, and civil society organizations, we help strengthen healthcare access and contribute to programs that advance TB prevention and care.
\nEnding TB requires more than medical solutions alone. It demands a whole-of-society approach, one that brings together government, industry, healthcare providers, communities, and individuals in a shared mission. When efforts are aligned, fragmented initiatives become a coordinated response capable of delivering lasting impact.
\nBy uniting across sectors and sustaining our collective commitment, we can move closer to a future where TB is no longer a public health threat.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world\u2019s deadliest infectious diseases despite being preventable and, in most cases, curable. It continues to claim lives, strain health systems, and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, reminding us that progress against TB is far from complete.\nAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Tuberculosis Report 2025, an estimated 10.7 million people fell ill with TB in 2024. Of these, 8.3 million were newly diagnosed, and 1.23 million died from the disease. Men accounted for 54% of cases, women 35%, and children 11%. These figures underscore the persistent and widespread burden of TB worldwide.\nEvery March 24, the global community marks World TB Day. This year\u2019s theme, \u201cUnite to End Tuberculosis,\u201d highlights the urgency of collective action through prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment to finally bring this disease under control.\nThe Philippines remains among the 30 countries with a high TB burden, which together account for 87% of global TB cases. In 2024, the country ranked third worldwide, contributing 6.8% of total cases, behind India (25%) and Indonesia (10%). This places TB firmly among the Philippines\u2019 most pressing public health challenges.\nTB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium that spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or spits. While the disease most commonly affects the lungs, it can also involve other parts of the body such as the kidneys, brain, spine, and skin.\nAn estimated one in four people globally carry TB bacteria in an inactive form. These individuals do not feel sick and are not contagious. However, a small proportion will go on to develop active TB disease, particularly those with weakened immune systems, including children, people living with HIV, and those with conditions such as diabetes.\nSymptoms of TB include a prolonged cough, sometimes with blood, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. Early consultation is critical. Prompt diagnosis and treatment not only improve patient outcomes but also help prevent further transmission. Simple measures such as wearing masks, covering the mouth when coughing, and proper disposal of tissues can also reduce spread.\nWithout treatment, nearly half of people with active TB may die. Fortunately, WHO-recommended treatment regimens, typically lasting four to six months, can cure about 90% of patients when followed properly. TB preventive treatment (TPT), meanwhile, can stop infection from progressing to active disease, especially among high-risk individuals. Completing the full course of treatment remains essential.\nIn the Philippines, the Department of Health (DoH), in collaboration with WHO and partners, has intensified efforts to eliminate TB. A key initiative aims to screen 12 million Filipinos by 2026 under Phase 2 of the Philippine Strategic TB Elimination Plan 2025\u20132030. This strategy seeks to strengthen the entire continuum of care \u2014 from prevention and diagnosis to treatment.\nTechnology is playing an increasingly important role. The DoH is deploying ultra-portable, AI-powered chest X-rays and WHO-recommended nucleic acid amplification tests to accelerate detection and improve diagnostic accuracy, particularly in underserved areas.\nEncouragingly, TB preventive treatment enrollment increased by more than 50% in 2024, driven by shorter treatment regimens and expanded contact tracing. Preventive care has also been extended to contacts of drug-resistant TB cases, while children with non-severe TB are now benefiting from shorter, more patient-friendly treatment courses. Public awareness campaigns, including TPTodo caravans, continue to promote early care-seeking and treatment adherence.\nAt the same time, the innovative pharmaceutical industry continues to invest in research and development as it works to improve diagnostics, develop more effective and shorter treatment regimens, and advance new vaccines that could transform TB prevention in the years ahead.\nThe Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), together with the PHAPCares Foundation, remains committed to supporting national TB control efforts. Through partnerships with the DoH, local government units, and civil society organizations, we help strengthen healthcare access and contribute to programs that advance TB prevention and care.\nEnding TB requires more than medical solutions alone. It demands a whole-of-society approach, one that brings together government, industry, healthcare providers, communities, and individuals in a shared mission. When efforts are aligned, fragmented initiatives become a coordinated response capable of delivering lasting impact.\nBy uniting across sectors and sustaining our collective commitment, we can move closer to a future where TB is no longer a public health threat.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-03-23T00:01:38+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-23T01:52:59+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Tuberculosis-abstract-concept-illustration.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=737722", "url": "/health/2026/03/20/737722/100-million-filipino-children-to-receive-oral-health-kits-by-2035/", "title": "100 million Filipino children to receive oral health kits by 2035", "content_html": "Colgate-Palmolive Philippines Inc. on Wednesday pledged to distribute 100 million oral health kits among Filipino children, as the company celebrates its 100th anniversary in the country.
\n\u201cOur second priority, which is a continuing thing, is that we run an oral health program that is famous across the world but is actually world-leading in the Philippines,\u201d Colgate-Palmolive Inc. Executive Vice President for Marketing in Asia Pacific Samir Singh told reporters in a media briefing.
\n\u201cGoing from now to 2035 in the next 10 years, we will do 100 million oral care kits, which is double what we have done so far,\u201d he added.
\nAccording to the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), 7 out of 10 Filipinos, or 72%, suffer from dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay. The majority of whom are school-age children ranging from five to 12 years old.
\nThe shortage of dental practitioners in schools also poses a challenge in promoting oral health and care. The Department of Education (DepEd) said that over 800 dental practitioners serve more than 24 million learners nationwide.
\n\u201cThat\u2019s 47,000 dental professionals for every one student, or one learner, but we are not discouraged,\u201d DepEd Assistant Secretary Cilette Liboro-Co said in her speech at an event.
\n\u201cThe well-being of the Filipino youth is our greatest priority. Together, we\u2019re building a future where our children grow up healthy, confident, and resilient,\u201d she added.
\nTo curb the cases of tooth decay among Filipinos, the Bright Smiles, Bright Futures (BSBF) program by Colgate-Palmolive has distributed 55 million oral care kits nationwide. Each kit includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, and the \u201cknowledge on how to take care of themselves better.\u201d
\n\u201cWe distribute kits every year to school-age children to ensure that they start their lives off with the right dental care habits, and we see that children who do this have a better quality of life in the long run,\u201d Colgate-Palmolive Philippines Marketing Director Bea Atienza told reporters at a media briefing.
\nThe multinational company also launched free dental checkups valid until the end of the year. Interested participants must answer the oral health questionnaire via the Colgate QR Code found on Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection packs.
\n\u201cWhether their barrier is about fear, whether their barrier is about access, we can now bring them straight to a dentist, and they can do that through Colgate,\u201d Ms. Atienza said.
\n\u201cWe’re bridging the gap from basic oral care to preventive oral care so that we can eventually go into a more zero-cavity future,\u201d she added. \u201cAnd that’s really been part of our thrust all of these decades.\u201d \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez
\n", "content_text": "Colgate-Palmolive Philippines Inc. on Wednesday pledged to distribute 100 million oral health kits among Filipino children, as the company celebrates its 100th anniversary in the country.\n\u201cOur second priority, which is a continuing thing, is that we run an oral health program that is famous across the world but is actually world-leading in the Philippines,\u201d Colgate-Palmolive Inc. Executive Vice President for Marketing in Asia Pacific Samir Singh told reporters in a media briefing.\n\u201cGoing from now to 2035 in the next 10 years, we will do 100 million oral care kits, which is double what we have done so far,\u201d he added.\nAccording to the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), 7 out of 10 Filipinos, or 72%, suffer from dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay. The majority of whom are school-age children ranging from five to 12 years old.\nThe shortage of dental practitioners in schools also poses a challenge in promoting oral health and care. The Department of Education (DepEd) said that over 800 dental practitioners serve more than 24 million learners nationwide.\n\u201cThat\u2019s 47,000 dental professionals for every one student, or one learner, but we are not discouraged,\u201d DepEd Assistant Secretary Cilette Liboro-Co said in her speech at an event.\n\u201cThe well-being of the Filipino youth is our greatest priority. Together, we\u2019re building a future where our children grow up healthy, confident, and resilient,\u201d she added.\nTo curb the cases of tooth decay among Filipinos, the Bright Smiles, Bright Futures (BSBF) program by Colgate-Palmolive has distributed 55 million oral care kits nationwide. Each kit includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, and the \u201cknowledge on how to take care of themselves better.\u201d\n\u201cWe distribute kits every year to school-age children to ensure that they start their lives off with the right dental care habits, and we see that children who do this have a better quality of life in the long run,\u201d Colgate-Palmolive Philippines Marketing Director Bea Atienza told reporters at a media briefing.\nThe multinational company also launched free dental checkups valid until the end of the year. Interested participants must answer the oral health questionnaire via the Colgate QR Code found on Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection packs.\n\u201cWhether their barrier is about fear, whether their barrier is about access, we can now bring them straight to a dentist, and they can do that through Colgate,\u201d Ms. Atienza said.\n\u201cWe’re bridging the gap from basic oral care to preventive oral care so that we can eventually go into a more zero-cavity future,\u201d she added. \u201cAnd that’s really been part of our thrust all of these decades.\u201d \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez", "date_published": "2026-03-20T11:44:53+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-20T11:44:53+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Angel-Qi-colgate.jpg", "tags": [ "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=737210", "url": "/health/2026/03/18/737210/lawmakers-urged-to-pass-bill-vs-unhealthy-food-marketing-nnc/", "title": "Lawmakers urged to pass bill vs. unhealthy food marketing \u2014 NNC", "content_html": "Philippine lawmakers are being urged to pass a measure that will protect children against the marketing of unhealthy foods to curb the rising cases of obesity among the age group, according to the National Nutrition Council (NNC) on Wednesday.
\nIn a statement, the NNC said the proposed Healthy Food Environment bill will help protect children from \u201caggressive marketing\u201d of foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and require front-of-pack labels.
\u201cObesity is not a failure of individuals\u2014it is often a failure of systems. We must transform our food environments, strengthen our policies, and work together to ensure that healthy choices become the easiest choices for every Filipino,\u201d Rosalina U. Bascao, officer-in-charge Executive Director IV of the NNC, said in a statement.
\nAccording to the United Nations Children\u2019s Fund (UNICEF), 99% of social media marketing posts from the country\u2019s top 20 most popular food products and brands were deemed unhealthy based on World Health Organization (WHO) standards.
\nThe study analyzed 1,035 social media posts and videos from these brands across major social media platforms. It also found that unhealthy foods are heavily marketed as fun, tasty, family-oriented, and even healthy or nutritious.
\nAs these unhealthy foods are heavily marketed, the NNC said that diets have shifted toward ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks, making it harder for families to choose healthier options and contributing to rising obesity.
\nThe NNC said that the number of overweight and obese children continues to rise. Around 12.9% of school-age children are classified as overweight or obese, while the rate among adolescents is at 12.5%.
\nWith the proposed Healthy Food Environment bill, the NNC said that food marketing safeguards for children will be established to help families make healthier choices.
\nAt least 20 versions of the bill have been filed in the House of Representatives.
One of these is House Bill No. 7777, filed on Feb. 11 by Quezon City 1st District Representative Juan Carlos \u201cArjo\u201d C. Atayde, which proposes that the Department of Health (DOH) develop a nutrient profile model to categorize food based on its nutrient composition and level of processing.
\nThe measure also mandates the DOH to regulate both the exposure of children to and the persuasive power of marketing for unhealthy food, ensuring that products identified as unhealthy are prohibited from being marketed to minors.
\nUnder the bill, these products must also carry a mandatory front-of-pack nutritional label, while child-directed marketing techniques, such as the use of cartoons, is strictly prohibited.
\nMeanwhile, Iloilo 1st District Representative and Deputy Speaker Janette L. Garin earlier recommended integrating lessons on misleading food marketing into the curriculum, citing its role in contributing to obesity.
\nShe told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0that this may be done through legislation or through the oversight powers of the House of Representatives.
\n\u201cWe have to start orienting parents and teachers because that is where it begins. We have to let them know what they are feeding their children or what they themselves are eating,\u201d Ms. Garin said. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "Philippine lawmakers are being urged to pass a measure that will protect children against the marketing of unhealthy foods to curb the rising cases of obesity among the age group, according to the National Nutrition Council (NNC) on Wednesday.\nIn a statement, the NNC said the proposed Healthy Food Environment bill will help protect children from \u201caggressive marketing\u201d of foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and require front-of-pack labels.\n\u201cObesity is not a failure of individuals\u2014it is often a failure of systems. We must transform our food environments, strengthen our policies, and work together to ensure that healthy choices become the easiest choices for every Filipino,\u201d Rosalina U. Bascao, officer-in-charge Executive Director IV of the NNC, said in a statement.\nAccording to the United Nations Children\u2019s Fund (UNICEF), 99% of social media marketing posts from the country\u2019s top 20 most popular food products and brands were deemed unhealthy based on World Health Organization (WHO) standards.\nThe study analyzed 1,035 social media posts and videos from these brands across major social media platforms. It also found that unhealthy foods are heavily marketed as fun, tasty, family-oriented, and even healthy or nutritious.\nAs these unhealthy foods are heavily marketed, the NNC said that diets have shifted toward ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks, making it harder for families to choose healthier options and contributing to rising obesity.\nThe NNC said that the number of overweight and obese children continues to rise. Around 12.9% of school-age children are classified as overweight or obese, while the rate among adolescents is at 12.5%.\nWith the proposed Healthy Food Environment bill, the NNC said that food marketing safeguards for children will be established to help families make healthier choices.\nAt least 20 versions of the bill have been filed in the House of Representatives.\nOne of these is House Bill No. 7777, filed on Feb. 11 by Quezon City 1st District Representative Juan Carlos \u201cArjo\u201d C. Atayde, which proposes that the Department of Health (DOH) develop a nutrient profile model to categorize food based on its nutrient composition and level of processing.\nThe measure also mandates the DOH to regulate both the exposure of children to and the persuasive power of marketing for unhealthy food, ensuring that products identified as unhealthy are prohibited from being marketed to minors.\nUnder the bill, these products must also carry a mandatory front-of-pack nutritional label, while child-directed marketing techniques, such as the use of cartoons, is strictly prohibited.\nMeanwhile, Iloilo 1st District Representative and Deputy Speaker Janette L. Garin earlier recommended integrating lessons on misleading food marketing into the curriculum, citing its role in contributing to obesity.\nShe told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0that this may be done through legislation or through the oversight powers of the House of Representatives.\n\u201cWe have to start orienting parents and teachers because that is where it begins. We have to let them know what they are feeding their children or what they themselves are eating,\u201d Ms. Garin said. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-03-18T17:57:16+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-18T17:57:16+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shopping-cart-grocery.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=736362", "url": "/opinion/2026/03/16/736362/a-united-front-against-antimicrobial-resistance/", "title": "A united front against antimicrobial resistance", "content_html": "Imagine a future where common infections once easily cured by antibiotics become life-threatening again. This is the growing reality posed by antimicrobial resistance (AMR), now recognized as one of the world\u2019s most urgent public health threats.
\nMisuse of antibiotics is accelerating drug resistance worldwide, making coordinated action from governments, healthcare professionals, industry, and the public more urgent than ever.
\nAMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and plants are among the main drivers of this problem. As drug resistance increases, antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents lose their effectiveness, making infections harder or even impossible to treat. This heightens the risk of disease spread, severe complications, and death.
\nProper antibiotic use is essential to preserve the effectiveness of these medicines, prevent antimicrobial resistance, and minimize adverse effects. Antibiotics are prescribed by physicians to treat and prevent bacterial infections, and they are not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Antibiotics should always be taken exactly as prescribed, and patients must complete the full course of treatment even if they start to feel better midway through therapy.
\nSelf-medicating with antibiotics should never be done. It often results in using the wrong drug, taking incorrect doses, or stopping treatment too early, all of which can accelerate resistance and lead to complications and adverse side effects. Antibiotics should also never be shared with others or taken if they were prescribed for someone else.
\nThe World Health Organization (WHO) has identified eight priority interventions to integrate AMR responses into primary healthcare systems. These include enforcing laws to curb over-the-counter sales of antimicrobials without prescriptions and strengthening public awareness on AMR and antimicrobial stewardship among healthcare workers and communities.
\nThe Department of Health (DoH) recognizes AMR as a serious threat to the country\u2019s health system. In response, it worked with other government agencies and stakeholders across sectors to develop the Philippine National Action Plan (PNAP) on AMR 2024-2028.
\nThe PNAP is anchored on the One Health approach, a collaborative and multisectoral strategy that recognizes the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment. The goal is to sustainably balance and optimize the health of all three. The plan underscores that AMR cannot be addressed in isolation. Instead, it requires close collaboration among the healthcare, agricultural, and environmental sectors. The PNAP also outlines seven key strategies, including strengthening multisectoral surveillance and laboratory capacity, promoting rational antibiotic use, advancing AMR research, and increasing public awareness and understanding of the issue.
\nAddressing AMR also requires strong collaboration with the research-based pharmaceutical industry, which continues to invest in innovation to combat drug-resistant infections. The industry plays an important role in helping define and implement policies aimed at preventing a future where effective antibiotics are no longer available to treat infections.
\nThe International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), which represents the global innovative pharmaceutical industry, helped establish the AMR Industry Alliance, one of the largest private-sector coalitions working to provide sustainable strategies to curb AMR. Bringing together more than 100 companies and associations, the Alliance focuses on four key areas: investing in research and development of new diagnostics and treatments; promoting responsible antibiotic use to slow resistance; improving access to high-quality antibiotics and ensuring new ones reach patients who need them; and reducing the environmental impact of antibiotic manufacturing.
\nIn 2020, the IFPMA, together with the WHO, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Wellcome Trust, launched the AMR Action Fund, a groundbreaking $1-billion initiative aimed at bringing two to four new antibiotics to patients by 2030. Supported by 23 pharmaceutical companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan, the fund invests in biotechnology firms and provides industry expertise to accelerate the clinical development of new antibiotics.
\nAntibiotic stewardship is equally critical in the fight against AMR. Ensuring that both existing and newly developed antibiotics are used appropriately helps preserve their effectiveness. Patients must have access to the right antibiotic at the right time, while last-line reserve antibiotics should only be used when truly necessary. Comprehensive stewardship programs require strong health systems, proper diagnostics, infection prevention and control measures, and sustained patient education.
\nPreventive measures must also play a central role in addressing AMR. Vaccination, in particular, is a powerful yet often underappreciated tool. By preventing bacterial and viral infections, vaccines reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics and slow the emergence of resistant strains.
\nWe also advocate policies and economic incentives that support the development and sustainable access to new antibiotics. At the same time, stewardship efforts must be complemented by broader strategies such as improved sanitation, better hygiene practices, and stronger vaccination programs.
\nAntimicrobial resistance is a complex and growing threat, but it is not insurmountable. Through responsible antibiotic use, stronger health systems, continued innovation, and coordinated action across sectors, we can preserve the effectiveness of life-saving medicines for future generations.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "Imagine a future where common infections once easily cured by antibiotics become life-threatening again. This is the growing reality posed by antimicrobial resistance (AMR), now recognized as one of the world\u2019s most urgent public health threats.\nMisuse of antibiotics is accelerating drug resistance worldwide, making coordinated action from governments, healthcare professionals, industry, and the public more urgent than ever.\nAMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and plants are among the main drivers of this problem. As drug resistance increases, antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents lose their effectiveness, making infections harder or even impossible to treat. This heightens the risk of disease spread, severe complications, and death.\nProper antibiotic use is essential to preserve the effectiveness of these medicines, prevent antimicrobial resistance, and minimize adverse effects. Antibiotics are prescribed by physicians to treat and prevent bacterial infections, and they are not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Antibiotics should always be taken exactly as prescribed, and patients must complete the full course of treatment even if they start to feel better midway through therapy.\nSelf-medicating with antibiotics should never be done. It often results in using the wrong drug, taking incorrect doses, or stopping treatment too early, all of which can accelerate resistance and lead to complications and adverse side effects. Antibiotics should also never be shared with others or taken if they were prescribed for someone else.\nThe World Health Organization (WHO) has identified eight priority interventions to integrate AMR responses into primary healthcare systems. These include enforcing laws to curb over-the-counter sales of antimicrobials without prescriptions and strengthening public awareness on AMR and antimicrobial stewardship among healthcare workers and communities.\nThe Department of Health (DoH) recognizes AMR as a serious threat to the country\u2019s health system. In response, it worked with other government agencies and stakeholders across sectors to develop the Philippine National Action Plan (PNAP) on AMR 2024-2028.\nThe PNAP is anchored on the One Health approach, a collaborative and multisectoral strategy that recognizes the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment. The goal is to sustainably balance and optimize the health of all three. The plan underscores that AMR cannot be addressed in isolation. Instead, it requires close collaboration among the healthcare, agricultural, and environmental sectors. The PNAP also outlines seven key strategies, including strengthening multisectoral surveillance and laboratory capacity, promoting rational antibiotic use, advancing AMR research, and increasing public awareness and understanding of the issue.\nAddressing AMR also requires strong collaboration with the research-based pharmaceutical industry, which continues to invest in innovation to combat drug-resistant infections. The industry plays an important role in helping define and implement policies aimed at preventing a future where effective antibiotics are no longer available to treat infections.\nThe International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), which represents the global innovative pharmaceutical industry, helped establish the AMR Industry Alliance, one of the largest private-sector coalitions working to provide sustainable strategies to curb AMR. Bringing together more than 100 companies and associations, the Alliance focuses on four key areas: investing in research and development of new diagnostics and treatments; promoting responsible antibiotic use to slow resistance; improving access to high-quality antibiotics and ensuring new ones reach patients who need them; and reducing the environmental impact of antibiotic manufacturing.\nIn 2020, the IFPMA, together with the WHO, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Wellcome Trust, launched the AMR Action Fund, a groundbreaking $1-billion initiative aimed at bringing two to four new antibiotics to patients by 2030. Supported by 23 pharmaceutical companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan, the fund invests in biotechnology firms and provides industry expertise to accelerate the clinical development of new antibiotics.\nAntibiotic stewardship is equally critical in the fight against AMR. Ensuring that both existing and newly developed antibiotics are used appropriately helps preserve their effectiveness. Patients must have access to the right antibiotic at the right time, while last-line reserve antibiotics should only be used when truly necessary. Comprehensive stewardship programs require strong health systems, proper diagnostics, infection prevention and control measures, and sustained patient education.\nPreventive measures must also play a central role in addressing AMR. Vaccination, in particular, is a powerful yet often underappreciated tool. By preventing bacterial and viral infections, vaccines reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics and slow the emergence of resistant strains.\nWe also advocate policies and economic incentives that support the development and sustainable access to new antibiotics. At the same time, stewardship efforts must be complemented by broader strategies such as improved sanitation, better hygiene practices, and stronger vaccination programs.\nAntimicrobial resistance is a complex and growing threat, but it is not insurmountable. Through responsible antibiotic use, stronger health systems, continued innovation, and coordinated action across sectors, we can preserve the effectiveness of life-saving medicines for future generations. \n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-03-16T00:01:01+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-16T01:45:33+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/futuristic-technology-concept-3.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=736145", "url": "/health/2026/03/13/736145/philippine-lawmaker-raises-alarm-over-obesity-as-study-shows-41-of-adults-overweight/", "title": "Philippine lawmaker raises alarm over obesity as study shows 41% of adults overweight", "content_html": "A Philippine lawmaker on Monday sounded the alarm over the country\u2019s rising obesity problem, following a recent study that found about 41% of the 72 million Filipino adults \u2014 translating to 29.5 million people \u2014 are classified as overweight or obese.
\n\u201cForty-one percent is very alarming. I was surprised because I never expected it to be that high,\u201d Janette L. Garin, Deputy Speaker and representative of Iloilo\u2019s 1st district, said in reaction to the findings of the Epidemiological Burden and Cost of Obesity in the Philippines (EpiCOb-PH) study, which was also released on the same day during a multi-sectoral forum.
\nThe study was led by Dr. Madeleine de Rosas-Valera and funded by Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical (Philippines) Inc. It also found that more than four in 10 Filipino adults are already at increased risk of obesity-related health problems.
\nMs. Garin said the findings of the study \u201care a sound of alarm and a red flag for our country,\u201d noting that Filipinos currently face high out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, while public healthcare spending is largely directed toward curative care rather than preventive care.
\nThe Iloilo representative said it is timely for the government to work together and address the problem of obesity by providing the right information down to schools and communities.
\nMs. Garin committed to pushing for programs and budget allocations for health to curb the number of obese Filipinos to about 10% from 41%, noting that such a persistently high figure would be \u201ca bad legacy for the country.\u201d
\nMeanwhile, she told 大象传媒 that she is looking into including lessons about misleading marketing of food that contributes to obesity in the school curriculum. Ms. Garin said she will pursue this through legislation or through the lower house\u2019s oversight powers.
\n\u201cPwede siyang ipasok sa curriculum. We have to start orienting the parents and teachers kasi doon magsisimula. We have to let them know what they are feeding or what they are eating [It can be included in the curriculum. We have to start orienting parents and teachers because that is where it begins. We have to let them know what they are feeding their children or what they themselves are eating],\u201d Ms. Garin said on the sidelines of the presentation of the EpiCOb-PH study.
\nOn the recent push to amend the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law to raise taxes on sweetened beverages and include previously exempted sweetened and flavored milk, Ms. Garin said discussions on taxation are difficult to pursue amid ongoing global economic challenges.
\n“Napaka-mahirap na tumbukin natin ang taxes especially when it relates to food [It is very difficult to directly raise taxes, especially when it relates to food],” Ms. Garin said.
\n“Maybe we can discuss about taxation in the future kasi para ngayon, if we talk about that baka mamaya, mas malaking impact sa ekonomiya [Maybe we can discuss taxation the future, because for now, if we talk about that, it might have a bigger impact on the economy later],” she added.
\nThe representative also said the lower house could explore other ways to curb obesity, such as imposing penalties on unhealthy foods and making measures to increase public awareness of foods that contribute to obesity.
\nThe EpiCOb-PH study was conducted to address the gap in research on obesity\u2019s demographic distribution and economic burden in the country. It used a modeling approach that combined multiple national data sources.
\nResearchers used data from the National Nutrition Survey and the Expanded National Nutrition Survey from 1993 to 2023 to estimate obesity\u2019s current and future trends, as well as its health impacts.
\nTRILLION-PESO COST OF OBESITY
\nThe EpiCOb-PH study also found that obesity is estimated to have cost the Philippines around P1.9 trillion in 2025, equivalent to 7.3% of the country\u2019s gross domestic product (GDP) that year. The cost could rise to as much as P2.7 trillion if overweight-related expenses are also included.
\nOf the total cost, P551 billion was attributed to healthcare expenses, which could reach P790 billion when overweight cases are included.
\nThese cover direct medical costs such as hospital confinement, based on normative estimates assuming patients are diagnosed and treated according to medical guidelines.
\nNon-medical costs were also taken into account, reaching P165.39 billion, including expenses such as transportation.
\nProductivity losses, including workdays missed due to obesity-related conditions, were estimated at P1.17 trillion.
\nThe cost of obesity was computed through a specialized cost-of-illness model that integrated findings from a previous epidemiological burden study, Dr. John Paul Caesar delos Trinos, chief scientific officer and principal at metaHealth Insights and Innovations Inc., a consulting agency that organized the forum, said.
\nThe analysis was also supported by secondary data, including published literature, online resources, and consultations with experts.
\nTo curb the economic cost of obesity, Mr. delos Trinos said that food warning labels could be improved to indicate high levels of obesity-inducing ingredients such as fat, sugar, and salt.
\nMeanwhile, he urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to include obesity in its primary care package, YAKAP.
\nFor government offices and workplaces, he also suggested incorporating wellness initiatives for employees.
\n\u201cThis cannot be addressed by one institution or one sector alone. It cannot just be researchers conducting studies, publishing them, and then calling it a day. This will really require collaboration between different sectors,” Mr. delos Trinos said during his presentation in mixed English and Filipino. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "A Philippine lawmaker on Monday sounded the alarm over the country\u2019s rising obesity problem, following a recent study that found about 41% of the 72 million Filipino adults \u2014 translating to 29.5 million people \u2014 are classified as overweight or obese.\n\u201cForty-one percent is very alarming. I was surprised because I never expected it to be that high,\u201d Janette L. Garin, Deputy Speaker and representative of Iloilo\u2019s 1st district, said in reaction to the findings of the Epidemiological Burden and Cost of Obesity in the Philippines (EpiCOb-PH) study, which was also released on the same day during a multi-sectoral forum.\nThe study was led by Dr. Madeleine de Rosas-Valera and funded by Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical (Philippines) Inc. It also found that more than four in 10 Filipino adults are already at increased risk of obesity-related health problems.\nMs. Garin said the findings of the study \u201care a sound of alarm and a red flag for our country,\u201d noting that Filipinos currently face high out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, while public healthcare spending is largely directed toward curative care rather than preventive care.\nThe Iloilo representative said it is timely for the government to work together and address the problem of obesity by providing the right information down to schools and communities.\nMs. Garin committed to pushing for programs and budget allocations for health to curb the number of obese Filipinos to about 10% from 41%, noting that such a persistently high figure would be \u201ca bad legacy for the country.\u201d\nMeanwhile, she told 大象传媒 that she is looking into including lessons about misleading marketing of food that contributes to obesity in the school curriculum. Ms. Garin said she will pursue this through legislation or through the lower house\u2019s oversight powers.\n\u201cPwede siyang ipasok sa curriculum. We have to start orienting the parents and teachers kasi doon magsisimula. We have to let them know what they are feeding or what they are eating [It can be included in the curriculum. We have to start orienting parents and teachers because that is where it begins. We have to let them know what they are feeding their children or what they themselves are eating],\u201d Ms. Garin said on the sidelines of the presentation of the EpiCOb-PH study.\nOn the recent push to amend the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law to raise taxes on sweetened beverages and include previously exempted sweetened and flavored milk, Ms. Garin said discussions on taxation are difficult to pursue amid ongoing global economic challenges.\n“Napaka-mahirap na tumbukin natin ang taxes especially when it relates to food [It is very difficult to directly raise taxes, especially when it relates to food],” Ms. Garin said.\n“Maybe we can discuss about taxation in the future kasi para ngayon, if we talk about that baka mamaya, mas malaking impact sa ekonomiya [Maybe we can discuss taxation the future, because for now, if we talk about that, it might have a bigger impact on the economy later],” she added.\nThe representative also said the lower house could explore other ways to curb obesity, such as imposing penalties on unhealthy foods and making measures to increase public awareness of foods that contribute to obesity.\nThe EpiCOb-PH study was conducted to address the gap in research on obesity\u2019s demographic distribution and economic burden in the country. It used a modeling approach that combined multiple national data sources.\nResearchers used data from the National Nutrition Survey and the Expanded National Nutrition Survey from 1993 to 2023 to estimate obesity\u2019s current and future trends, as well as its health impacts.\nTRILLION-PESO COST OF OBESITY\nThe EpiCOb-PH study also found that obesity is estimated to have cost the Philippines around P1.9 trillion in 2025, equivalent to 7.3% of the country\u2019s gross domestic product (GDP) that year. The cost could rise to as much as P2.7 trillion if overweight-related expenses are also included.\nOf the total cost, P551 billion was attributed to healthcare expenses, which could reach P790 billion when overweight cases are included.\nThese cover direct medical costs such as hospital confinement, based on normative estimates assuming patients are diagnosed and treated according to medical guidelines.\nNon-medical costs were also taken into account, reaching P165.39 billion, including expenses such as transportation.\nProductivity losses, including workdays missed due to obesity-related conditions, were estimated at P1.17 trillion.\nThe cost of obesity was computed through a specialized cost-of-illness model that integrated findings from a previous epidemiological burden study, Dr. John Paul Caesar delos Trinos, chief scientific officer and principal at metaHealth Insights and Innovations Inc., a consulting agency that organized the forum, said.\nThe analysis was also supported by secondary data, including published literature, online resources, and consultations with experts.\nTo curb the economic cost of obesity, Mr. delos Trinos said that food warning labels could be improved to indicate high levels of obesity-inducing ingredients such as fat, sugar, and salt.\nMeanwhile, he urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to include obesity in its primary care package, YAKAP.\nFor government offices and workplaces, he also suggested incorporating wellness initiatives for employees.\n\u201cThis cannot be addressed by one institution or one sector alone. It cannot just be researchers conducting studies, publishing them, and then calling it a day. This will really require collaboration between different sectors,” Mr. delos Trinos said during his presentation in mixed English and Filipino. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-03-13T12:22:54+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-13T12:23:17+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/rgentribirthfurd/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9965230d2fd009579b4e8df9a934f6d1021b1ee67e60bcb4cad3b7249a2900ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/rgentribirthfurd/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9965230d2fd009579b4e8df9a934f6d1021b1ee67e60bcb4cad3b7249a2900ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/janet-garin-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=735872", "url": "/health/2026/03/12/735872/mercury-drug-to-expand-free-kidney-screening-to-50-more-branches/", "title": "Mercury Drug to expand free kidney screening to 50 more branches", "content_html": "Local drugstore chain Mercury Drug Corp. plans to expand its free kidney screening program to 50 more branches, aiming to help more Filipinos avoid the catastrophic complications of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
\n\u201cWe are expanding the kidney screening to 50 branches to bring pre-screening for blood sugar, blood pressure, and kidney health through Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR) testing closer to more Filipinos,\u201d Corazon S. Lim, vice-president for merchandising at Mercury Drug Corp., said.
\nShe made the announcement during the signing of an agreement with AstraZeneca Philippines and Diabetes Philippines, which serve as partners and equipment providers for the drugstore\u2019s free kidney screening initiative.
\nThe planned expansion will add to the existing four sites, launched in January, that offer free UACR testing, Dr. Reynaldo S. Rosales, treasurer of Diabetes Philippines, told\u00a0大象传媒. UACR testing detects early signs of kidney damage by identifying the presence of protein in the urine.
\nOther health screenings are also available at the sites, including blood pressure measurement, random blood sugar testing, and body mass index (BMI) assessment, which help identify risk factors associated with CKD.
\nMr. Rosales said early screening for CKD is important because it is considered a silent disease, with symptoms often appearing only when the condition has already reached advanced stages.
\nDetecting the disease early could also help families and the government avoid the high cost of treatment, particularly dialysis.
\nPhilippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) paid nearly P27 billion for more than two million hemodialysis claims for the first half of 2025
\nWhen asked about the timeline for completing the expansion and where the additional screening sites will be located, Mr. Rosales did not disclose the details, saying discussions with the drugstore are still ongoing to determine which branches will host the screening services.
\n\u201cIt\u2019s a slow process. Hopefully, it will depend on Mercury Drug on how we can expand,\u201d Mr. Rosales said on the sidelines of the event.
\nAs of this writing, the free kidney screening test is available at Mercury Drug Corporation branches located in Shangri-La Plaza and The Pavilion Mall in Mandaluyong City, Ayala Malls Trinoma in Quezon City, and in Noveleta, Cavite.
\nAbout 1,000 patients per month are screened at each of the two Mercury Drug screening sites, helping detect early signs of kidney disease as well as Heart Disease and Diabetes Mellitus, Mr. Rosales said.
\nSince 2024, the partnership has screened around 44,000 patients, about 4% of whom tested positive for possible CKD, Mercury Drug earlier said.
\nFollowing the signing of the agreement, Mr. Rosales said doctors will now also be available at the four screening sites every Sunday. Patients may immediately receive medical advice and be recommended medication or additional laboratory tests if necessary.
\nMr. Rosales urged Filipinos \u2014 particularly those with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and individuals aged 60 and above \u2014 to undergo CKD screening.
\nMeanwhile, Lotis Ramin, country president of AstraZeneca Philippines, said the initiative aims to challenge the country\u2019s status quo, where about 7 million Filipinos are estimated to be living with stage 3 CKD and above, while around 90% remain undiagnosed despite the high incidence.
\n\u201cThat\u2019s why partnerships focused on early screening remain very important, because this can change the trajectory and outcomes for these patients,\u201d Ms. Ramin said in her speech.
\nEIGHT GOLDEN RULES FOR KIDNEY CARE
\nTo help prevent the development of kidney disease, Mr. Rosales emphasized the importance of following the \u201cEight Golden Rules for Kidney Care.\u201d
These include maintaining proper control of blood pressure.
\nMr. Rosales noted that a blood pressure level of 130/80 mmHg is preferable compared with the commonly cited threshold of 140/90 mmHg.
\nHe also highlighted the importance of managing blood sugar levels, maintaining a balanced diet that includes vegetables and fruits, and setting aside time for regular exercise, even simple activities such as chair yoga during work breaks.
\nProper hydration is also important, he said, encouraging people to drink adequate amounts of water, even more than the recommended six to eight glasses per day, especially amid the advent of the dry season.
\nLastly, Mr. Rosales advised avoiding smoking and limiting the use of pain relievers and supplements without proper medical guidance, while ensuring regular medical checkups. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "Local drugstore chain Mercury Drug Corp. plans to expand its free kidney screening program to 50 more branches, aiming to help more Filipinos avoid the catastrophic complications of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).\n\u201cWe are expanding the kidney screening to 50 branches to bring pre-screening for blood sugar, blood pressure, and kidney health through Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR) testing closer to more Filipinos,\u201d Corazon S. Lim, vice-president for merchandising at Mercury Drug Corp., said.\nShe made the announcement during the signing of an agreement with AstraZeneca Philippines and Diabetes Philippines, which serve as partners and equipment providers for the drugstore\u2019s free kidney screening initiative.\nThe planned expansion will add to the existing four sites, launched in January, that offer free UACR testing, Dr. Reynaldo S. Rosales, treasurer of Diabetes Philippines, told\u00a0大象传媒. UACR testing detects early signs of kidney damage by identifying the presence of protein in the urine.\nOther health screenings are also available at the sites, including blood pressure measurement, random blood sugar testing, and body mass index (BMI) assessment, which help identify risk factors associated with CKD.\nMr. Rosales said early screening for CKD is important because it is considered a silent disease, with symptoms often appearing only when the condition has already reached advanced stages.\nDetecting the disease early could also help families and the government avoid the high cost of treatment, particularly dialysis.\nPhilippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) paid nearly P27 billion for more than two million hemodialysis claims for the first half of 2025\nWhen asked about the timeline for completing the expansion and where the additional screening sites will be located, Mr. Rosales did not disclose the details, saying discussions with the drugstore are still ongoing to determine which branches will host the screening services.\n\u201cIt\u2019s a slow process. Hopefully, it will depend on Mercury Drug on how we can expand,\u201d Mr. Rosales said on the sidelines of the event.\nAs of this writing, the free kidney screening test is available at Mercury Drug Corporation branches located in Shangri-La Plaza and The Pavilion Mall in Mandaluyong City, Ayala Malls Trinoma in Quezon City, and in Noveleta, Cavite.\nAbout 1,000 patients per month are screened at each of the two Mercury Drug screening sites, helping detect early signs of kidney disease as well as Heart Disease and Diabetes Mellitus, Mr. Rosales said.\nSince 2024, the partnership has screened around 44,000 patients, about 4% of whom tested positive for possible CKD, Mercury Drug earlier said.\nFollowing the signing of the agreement, Mr. Rosales said doctors will now also be available at the four screening sites every Sunday. Patients may immediately receive medical advice and be recommended medication or additional laboratory tests if necessary.\nMr. Rosales urged Filipinos \u2014 particularly those with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and individuals aged 60 and above \u2014 to undergo CKD screening.\nMeanwhile, Lotis Ramin, country president of AstraZeneca Philippines, said the initiative aims to challenge the country\u2019s status quo, where about 7 million Filipinos are estimated to be living with stage 3 CKD and above, while around 90% remain undiagnosed despite the high incidence.\n\u201cThat\u2019s why partnerships focused on early screening remain very important, because this can change the trajectory and outcomes for these patients,\u201d Ms. Ramin said in her speech.\nEIGHT GOLDEN RULES FOR KIDNEY CARE\nTo help prevent the development of kidney disease, Mr. Rosales emphasized the importance of following the \u201cEight Golden Rules for Kidney Care.\u201d\nThese include maintaining proper control of blood pressure.\nMr. Rosales noted that a blood pressure level of 130/80 mmHg is preferable compared with the commonly cited threshold of 140/90 mmHg.\nHe also highlighted the importance of managing blood sugar levels, maintaining a balanced diet that includes vegetables and fruits, and setting aside time for regular exercise, even simple activities such as chair yoga during work breaks.\nProper hydration is also important, he said, encouraging people to drink adequate amounts of water, even more than the recommended six to eight glasses per day, especially amid the advent of the dry season.\nLastly, Mr. Rosales advised avoiding smoking and limiting the use of pain relievers and supplements without proper medical guidance, while ensuring regular medical checkups. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-03-12T19:01:51+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-12T19:15:36+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/uacr-mercury.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=735665", "url": "/health/2026/03/11/735665/untreated-obesity-a-growing-health-crisis-experts/", "title": "Untreated obesity, a growing health crisis \u2013 experts", "content_html": "Health experts on Tuesday warned that delaying treatment for obesity, described as \u201ca growing health crisis,\u201d could increase the prevalence of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic (CKM) diseases.
\nThe call was led by the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM), noting that more than 39.8% of Filipino adults are classified as obese and 17.3% are overweight.
\nExperts warned that these conditions significantly increase the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney diseases (CKD), which rank among the top causes of mortality among Filipinos based on recent data.
\n\u201cObesity is more than just a lifestyle problem; it\u2019s a chronic disease that is often overlooked and influenced by factors like genetics, eating habits, and our environment,\u201d Dr. Elaine C. Cunanan, vice president of PCEDM, said in a statement.
\nThe call was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed by PCEDM, the Philippine Heart Association (PHA), the Philippine Society of Nephrology (PSN), and the Philippine Association for the Study of Overweight and Obesity (PASOO).
\nThe partnership signaled a coordinated, multi-specialty effort to curb obesity and prevent its associated life-threatening complications.
\nMs. Cunanan said the collaboration marked a united front among specialists against obesity, which they described as a growing health crisis.
\n\u201cThrough this alliance, we aim to raise awareness and encourage Filipinos to take proactive steps toward better health, preventing obesity from progressing to serious CKM complications,\u201d she said.
\nHealth experts urged legislators to integrate obesity care at all levels of the health system and to foster environments that make healthy choices easier for Filipinos.
\nThey also emphasized the importance of coordinated and proactive action to reduce the burden of obesity in the country.
\nMeanwhile, health experts in their respective specializations warned of complications driven by obesity.
\nDr. Lourdes Ella G. Santos, a cardiologist and Director I at PHA, said more young Filipino adults are being diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension, mainly driven by obesity.
\n\u201cExcess weight puts a dangerous strain on the heart and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes,\u201d Ms. Santos said in a statement.
\nObesity is also a major contributor to the development of CKD, according to Dr. Ricardo A. Francisco, a kidney specialist and president of PSN.
\n\u201cKidney damage develops silently, so most people discover problems only at an advanced stage, when dialysis or a transplant may be needed,\u201d Dr. Francisco said.
\nHe noted that prevention includes awareness and regular screening to detect problems early.
Dr. Nemencio A. Nicodemus, president of the Philippine College of Physicians, also linked obesity to the development of fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and cancers of the breast, colon, and prostate
\nEarly and sustained intervention is emphasized by Dr. Luzviminda S. Katigbak, president of PASOO, through the adoption of healthy habits and regular screening.
\nShe also said that better access to healthcare and strong support networks are essential for effective prevention and treatment of obesity.
\nThe unified advocacy is themed \u201c8 Billion Reasons to Act on Obesity: Stronger Heart, Healthier Kidneys, Better Diabetes Control,\u201d in observance of Philippines Health Month, World Obesity Day, and World Kidney Day. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "Health experts on Tuesday warned that delaying treatment for obesity, described as \u201ca growing health crisis,\u201d could increase the prevalence of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic (CKM) diseases.\nThe call was led by the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM), noting that more than 39.8% of Filipino adults are classified as obese and 17.3% are overweight.\nExperts warned that these conditions significantly increase the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney diseases (CKD), which rank among the top causes of mortality among Filipinos based on recent data.\n\u201cObesity is more than just a lifestyle problem; it\u2019s a chronic disease that is often overlooked and influenced by factors like genetics, eating habits, and our environment,\u201d Dr. Elaine C. Cunanan, vice president of PCEDM, said in a statement.\nThe call was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed by PCEDM, the Philippine Heart Association (PHA), the Philippine Society of Nephrology (PSN), and the Philippine Association for the Study of Overweight and Obesity (PASOO).\nThe partnership signaled a coordinated, multi-specialty effort to curb obesity and prevent its associated life-threatening complications.\nMs. Cunanan said the collaboration marked a united front among specialists against obesity, which they described as a growing health crisis.\n\u201cThrough this alliance, we aim to raise awareness and encourage Filipinos to take proactive steps toward better health, preventing obesity from progressing to serious CKM complications,\u201d she said.\nHealth experts urged legislators to integrate obesity care at all levels of the health system and to foster environments that make healthy choices easier for Filipinos.\nThey also emphasized the importance of coordinated and proactive action to reduce the burden of obesity in the country.\nMeanwhile, health experts in their respective specializations warned of complications driven by obesity.\nDr. Lourdes Ella G. Santos, a cardiologist and Director I at PHA, said more young Filipino adults are being diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension, mainly driven by obesity.\n\u201cExcess weight puts a dangerous strain on the heart and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes,\u201d Ms. Santos said in a statement.\nObesity is also a major contributor to the development of CKD, according to Dr. Ricardo A. Francisco, a kidney specialist and president of PSN.\n\u201cKidney damage develops silently, so most people discover problems only at an advanced stage, when dialysis or a transplant may be needed,\u201d Dr. Francisco said.\nHe noted that prevention includes awareness and regular screening to detect problems early.\nDr. Nemencio A. Nicodemus, president of the Philippine College of Physicians, also linked obesity to the development of fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and cancers of the breast, colon, and prostate\nEarly and sustained intervention is emphasized by Dr. Luzviminda S. Katigbak, president of PASOO, through the adoption of healthy habits and regular screening.\nShe also said that better access to healthcare and strong support networks are essential for effective prevention and treatment of obesity.\nThe unified advocacy is themed \u201c8 Billion Reasons to Act on Obesity: Stronger Heart, Healthier Kidneys, Better Diabetes Control,\u201d in observance of Philippines Health Month, World Obesity Day, and World Kidney Day. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-03-11T19:02:26+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-11T19:02:26+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/diet-sandwich-meter.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=735218", "url": "/health/2026/03/10/735218/obesity-cost-philippines-p1-9-trillion-in-2025-study/", "title": "Obesity cost Philippines P1.9 trillion in 2025\u2014 study", "content_html": "Obesity, a condition that increases the risk of severe chronic diseases such as diabetes, is estimated to have cost the Philippines around P1.9 trillion in 2025, according to the Epidemiological Burden and Cost of Obesity in the Philippines (EpiCOb-PH) study released Monday.
\nThe EpiCOb-PH study was led by Dr. Madeleine de Rosas-Valera and funded by Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical (Philippines) Inc., aiming to assess obesity\u2019s demographic distribution and economic burden in the country.
\nIt also found that obesity\u2019s total economic cost is equivalent to 7.3% of last year\u2019s gross domestic product (GDP). The cost could rise to as much as P2.7 trillion if overweight-related expenses are also included.
\nOf the total cost, P551 billion was attributed to healthcare expenses, which could reach P790 billion when overweight is included. These cover direct medical costs such as hospital confinement, based on normative estimates assuming patients are diagnosed and treated according to medical guidelines.
\nNon-medical costs were also taken into account, reaching P165.39 billion, including expenses such as transportation.
\nMeanwhile, productivity losses, including workdays missed due to obesity-related conditions, were estimated at P1.17 trillion.
\nOn an individual level, obesity\u2019s average annual cost is estimated at around P66,696 per person, which could significantly increase when complications occur.
\nThe study also estimated that of the 72 million Filipino adults, about 41% or 29.5 million people are overweight or obese based on the Asia-Pacific BMI threshold, placing more than four in 10 Filipino adults at risk of obesity-related health problems.
The EpiCOb-PH study, whose key aims include calculating the economic costs associated with obesity and estimating its health burden among Filipinos, used a modelling approach that combined multiple national data sources.
\nResearchers used data from the National Nutrition Survey and Expanded National Nutrition Survey from 1993 to 2023 to estimate obesity\u2019s current and future trends and health impacts. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "Obesity, a condition that increases the risk of severe chronic diseases such as diabetes, is estimated to have cost the Philippines around P1.9 trillion in 2025, according to the Epidemiological Burden and Cost of Obesity in the Philippines (EpiCOb-PH) study released Monday.\nThe EpiCOb-PH study was led by Dr. Madeleine de Rosas-Valera and funded by Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical (Philippines) Inc., aiming to assess obesity\u2019s demographic distribution and economic burden in the country.\nIt also found that obesity\u2019s total economic cost is equivalent to 7.3% of last year\u2019s gross domestic product (GDP). The cost could rise to as much as P2.7 trillion if overweight-related expenses are also included.\nOf the total cost, P551 billion was attributed to healthcare expenses, which could reach P790 billion when overweight is included. These cover direct medical costs such as hospital confinement, based on normative estimates assuming patients are diagnosed and treated according to medical guidelines.\nNon-medical costs were also taken into account, reaching P165.39 billion, including expenses such as transportation.\nMeanwhile, productivity losses, including workdays missed due to obesity-related conditions, were estimated at P1.17 trillion.\nOn an individual level, obesity\u2019s average annual cost is estimated at around P66,696 per person, which could significantly increase when complications occur.\nThe study also estimated that of the 72 million Filipino adults, about 41% or 29.5 million people are overweight or obese based on the Asia-Pacific BMI threshold, placing more than four in 10 Filipino adults at risk of obesity-related health problems.\nThe EpiCOb-PH study, whose key aims include calculating the economic costs associated with obesity and estimating its health burden among Filipinos, used a modelling approach that combined multiple national data sources.\nResearchers used data from the National Nutrition Survey and Expanded National Nutrition Survey from 1993 to 2023 to estimate obesity\u2019s current and future trends and health impacts. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-03-10T09:03:36+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-10T09:03:36+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/weighing-scale.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=734869", "url": "/opinion/2026/03/09/734869/preventing-diverticulitis-starts-with-healthy-habits/", "title": "Preventing diverticulitis starts with healthy habits", "content_html": "Earlier this year, a digestive disorder that many Filipinos had rarely heard of suddenly captured national attention when it was widely reported by news organizations. The condition, called diverticulitis, is now a timely topic to revisit as the country observes Philippine Digestive Health Week.
\nThe annual observance aims to raise public awareness about digestive health and educate Filipinos on preventing and managing digestive diseases, emphasizing that a healthy gut is essential to overall wellbeing.
\nLocal studies and clinical data show that, among Filipino patients whose average age ranges from 57 to 62, diverticulitis is becoming an increasingly common incidental finding during a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure in which a gastroenterologist uses a flexible, camera-equipped tube to examine the rectum and entire large intestine. It remains the gold standard for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer through the identification and removal of polyps.
\nDiverticulitis is the inflammation of small bulging pouches, called diverticula, that form in the wall of the large intestine or colon. Normally, the colon wall is smooth. As people age, particularly after age 50, these small pouches may develop, most often in the lower part of the colon.
\nWeak spots in the colon wall can form diverticula when pressure builds up, possibly due to spasms or straining. The presence of these pouches is called diverticulosis, which usually causes no symptoms. Diverticulitis occurs when the pouches become inflamed or infected.
\nCommon symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain, nausea, fever, tenderness in the abdomen when touched, and changes in bowel movement, including sudden diarrhea or constipation. Mild cases are usually managed at home with rest, a liquid diet, and, in some cases, oral antibiotics. Severe cases require hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics and pain management, among other medical treatments.
\nAside from advancing age, several factors increase the risk of diverticulitis. These include obesity, smoking, a low-fiber diet, diets high in red meat, heavy alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, low vitamin D levels, and regular use of certain medications.
\nThe majority of diverticulitis cases are uncomplicated, and most patients recover well with treatment. However, without proper management, diverticulitis can lead to serious, and sometimes life-threatening, complications such as peritonitis or intestinal obstruction. Up to 25% of patients may develop complicated diverticulitis, which can involve an abscess (a swollen, pus-filled pocket of tissue), perforation (a tear or rupture in the colon wall), or a fistula (an abnormal tunnel-like connection between the colon and another organ). These cases may need surgery.
\nAs with many noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to prevent diverticulitis. This includes exercising regularly (at least 150 minutes a week); eating a high-fiber diet consisting mostly of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and beans while cutting back on red meats and sweets; maintaining a healthy weight; drinking plenty of fluids; and quitting smoking while limiting alcohol intake.
\nA diet rich in fiber lowers the risk of diverticulitis by promoting regular bowel movements and softening stool, which reduces pressure on the colon walls. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, legumes such as sitaw (yardlong beans) and monggo (mung beans), nuts such as peanuts and almonds, and whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and even popcorn.
\nAdequate water intake is important for a high-fiber diet to work, as fiber absorbs significant fluids as it travels through the digestive tract. Proper hydration keeps stool soft and bulky, facilitating easier passage, preventing constipation, and alleviating symptoms like bloating. Without enough water, high fiber intake can actually lead to severe constipation, dehydration, and intestinal blockages.
\nHealth experts recommend a daily fiber intake of 25 to 35 grams to support proper digestion and reduce the risk of conditions such as diverticulitis. Yet many Filipino adults fall far short of this target. A study by the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DoST-FNRI) found that the average working Filipino consumes only 7.97 grams of fiber per day, less than half of the recommended daily intake.
\nThe cross-sectional survey involved 1,264 working adults aged 19 to 59 from various job sectors. It also revealed that almost six in 10 respondents (59.10%) were physically inactive, with the highest percentage of inactivity seen in the administrative sector (65.81%). A majority of respondents were sedentary, except in the manufacturing sector where about half engaged in regular physical activity. Many respondents (42%) were on maintenance medications, while hypertension (21.50%) and diabetes (20%) were the most common NCDs in their families.
\nNCDs remain the leading cause of illness and death among Filipinos. Addressing their growing burden requires a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach that prioritizes prevention, early detection, and stronger health systems.
\nTo this end, the research-based pharmaceutical industry remains committed to contributing to this effort by championing innovation, evidence-based approaches, and inclusive partnerships that help Filipinos live healthier, longer lives.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "Earlier this year, a digestive disorder that many Filipinos had rarely heard of suddenly captured national attention when it was widely reported by news organizations. The condition, called diverticulitis, is now a timely topic to revisit as the country observes Philippine Digestive Health Week.\nThe annual observance aims to raise public awareness about digestive health and educate Filipinos on preventing and managing digestive diseases, emphasizing that a healthy gut is essential to overall wellbeing.\nLocal studies and clinical data show that, among Filipino patients whose average age ranges from 57 to 62, diverticulitis is becoming an increasingly common incidental finding during a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure in which a gastroenterologist uses a flexible, camera-equipped tube to examine the rectum and entire large intestine. It remains the gold standard for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer through the identification and removal of polyps.\nDiverticulitis is the inflammation of small bulging pouches, called diverticula, that form in the wall of the large intestine or colon. Normally, the colon wall is smooth. As people age, particularly after age 50, these small pouches may develop, most often in the lower part of the colon.\nWeak spots in the colon wall can form diverticula when pressure builds up, possibly due to spasms or straining. The presence of these pouches is called diverticulosis, which usually causes no symptoms. Diverticulitis occurs when the pouches become inflamed or infected.\nCommon symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain, nausea, fever, tenderness in the abdomen when touched, and changes in bowel movement, including sudden diarrhea or constipation. Mild cases are usually managed at home with rest, a liquid diet, and, in some cases, oral antibiotics. Severe cases require hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics and pain management, among other medical treatments.\nAside from advancing age, several factors increase the risk of diverticulitis. These include obesity, smoking, a low-fiber diet, diets high in red meat, heavy alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, low vitamin D levels, and regular use of certain medications.\nThe majority of diverticulitis cases are uncomplicated, and most patients recover well with treatment. However, without proper management, diverticulitis can lead to serious, and sometimes life-threatening, complications such as peritonitis or intestinal obstruction. Up to 25% of patients may develop complicated diverticulitis, which can involve an abscess (a swollen, pus-filled pocket of tissue), perforation (a tear or rupture in the colon wall), or a fistula (an abnormal tunnel-like connection between the colon and another organ). These cases may need surgery.\nAs with many noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to prevent diverticulitis. This includes exercising regularly (at least 150 minutes a week); eating a high-fiber diet consisting mostly of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and beans while cutting back on red meats and sweets; maintaining a healthy weight; drinking plenty of fluids; and quitting smoking while limiting alcohol intake.\nA diet rich in fiber lowers the risk of diverticulitis by promoting regular bowel movements and softening stool, which reduces pressure on the colon walls. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, legumes such as sitaw (yardlong beans) and monggo (mung beans), nuts such as peanuts and almonds, and whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and even popcorn.\nAdequate water intake is important for a high-fiber diet to work, as fiber absorbs significant fluids as it travels through the digestive tract. Proper hydration keeps stool soft and bulky, facilitating easier passage, preventing constipation, and alleviating symptoms like bloating. Without enough water, high fiber intake can actually lead to severe constipation, dehydration, and intestinal blockages.\nHealth experts recommend a daily fiber intake of 25 to 35 grams to support proper digestion and reduce the risk of conditions such as diverticulitis. Yet many Filipino adults fall far short of this target. A study by the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DoST-FNRI) found that the average working Filipino consumes only 7.97 grams of fiber per day, less than half of the recommended daily intake.\nThe cross-sectional survey involved 1,264 working adults aged 19 to 59 from various job sectors. It also revealed that almost six in 10 respondents (59.10%) were physically inactive, with the highest percentage of inactivity seen in the administrative sector (65.81%). A majority of respondents were sedentary, except in the manufacturing sector where about half engaged in regular physical activity. Many respondents (42%) were on maintenance medications, while hypertension (21.50%) and diabetes (20%) were the most common NCDs in their families.\nNCDs remain the leading cause of illness and death among Filipinos. Addressing their growing burden requires a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach that prioritizes prevention, early detection, and stronger health systems.\nTo this end, the research-based pharmaceutical industry remains committed to contributing to this effort by championing innovation, evidence-based approaches, and inclusive partnerships that help Filipinos live healthier, longer lives.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-03-09T00:01:43+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-09T01:22:40+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Human-body.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=734549", "url": "/health/2026/03/05/734549/experts-push-for-municipal-veterinary-offices-bill-to-curb-rabies-cases/", "title": "Experts push for municipal veterinary offices bill to curb rabies cases", "content_html": "The Provincial, City & Municipal Veterinarians League of the Philippines (PCMVLP) said on Thursday that a bill mandating veterinary offices in each municipality can help curb the rabies cases nationwide.
\n\u201cThe problem in the LGU (local government unit) code, veterinarian positions are mandatory only for provincial and city, and optional for the municipalities,\u201d PCMVLP President Flomella A. Caguicla told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0in an interview.
\n\u201cIn the Rabies Act, it says that first-class municipalities must create veterinary positions or offices, but most LGUs, or most first-class municipalities, haven\u2019t created them yet,\u201d she added.
\nThe Department of Health (DoH) reported that rabies cases in the country decreased by 32% last year, while animal bite cases increased to four million.
\n\u201cThe LGUs are already doing a lot for rabies control and animal welfare protection; imagine if there are also no veterinarians in municipalities,\u201d Ms. Caguicla said.
\nData from the PCMVLP showed that only 3%, or 48 out of 1,493 municipalities nationwide, have a municipal veterinary office.
\nHowever, provinces and cities have 79 and 131 veterinary offices, respectively.
\n\u201cThey are citing lack of funds, but I think, if the local chief executive prioritizes the creation, they can do it because there are municipalities that have already created it,\u201d Ms. Caguicla said.
\nIn Quezon Province, only six out of 41 LGUs have veterinarians.
\n\u201cActually in Quezon, we have an additional municipal veterinary office in Mauban, while others are creating veterinary positions\u2026 but it is still not enough,\u201d she said.
\n\u201cWe want to have a bill for all municipalities so that if you are second-class to fifth-class, you will still have a municipal veterinarian because animals are really\u00a0a part of human life,\u201d she added.
\nWith the low population of veterinarians in public office, some municipalities also rely on municipal agriculturists to address the needs of pet owners and livestock raisers.
\n\u201cSometimes the municipalities will cut costs by tasking the municipal agriculturists to do the job of veterinarians,\u201d Ms. Caguicla said. \u201cThey are good because they can do that, but they are not mandated to do that.\u201d
\n\u201cFor the protection of all animals, including wildlife and companion animals, we need a veterinarian in each municipality,\u201d she added.
\nIn October 2025, Abra Representative Joseph Sto. Ni\u00f1o B. Bernos and Solid North Party-list Representative Menchie Beronilla Bernos have filed House Bill No. 5059, known as the Animal Medical Center bill.
\nThe proposed bill aims to establish veterinary clinics in all LGUs nationwide, providing veterinary consultations, vaccinations, diagnosis, treatment, and minor surgical procedures for pets and livestock animals. \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez
\n", "content_text": "The Provincial, City & Municipal Veterinarians League of the Philippines (PCMVLP) said on Thursday that a bill mandating veterinary offices in each municipality can help curb the rabies cases nationwide.\n\u201cThe problem in the LGU (local government unit) code, veterinarian positions are mandatory only for provincial and city, and optional for the municipalities,\u201d PCMVLP President Flomella A. Caguicla told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0in an interview.\n\u201cIn the Rabies Act, it says that first-class municipalities must create veterinary positions or offices, but most LGUs, or most first-class municipalities, haven\u2019t created them yet,\u201d she added.\nThe Department of Health (DoH) reported that rabies cases in the country decreased by 32% last year, while animal bite cases increased to four million.\n\u201cThe LGUs are already doing a lot for rabies control and animal welfare protection; imagine if there are also no veterinarians in municipalities,\u201d Ms. Caguicla said.\nData from the PCMVLP showed that only 3%, or 48 out of 1,493 municipalities nationwide, have a municipal veterinary office.\nHowever, provinces and cities have 79 and 131 veterinary offices, respectively.\n\u201cThey are citing lack of funds, but I think, if the local chief executive prioritizes the creation, they can do it because there are municipalities that have already created it,\u201d Ms. Caguicla said.\nIn Quezon Province, only six out of 41 LGUs have veterinarians.\n\u201cActually in Quezon, we have an additional municipal veterinary office in Mauban, while others are creating veterinary positions\u2026 but it is still not enough,\u201d she said.\n\u201cWe want to have a bill for all municipalities so that if you are second-class to fifth-class, you will still have a municipal veterinarian because animals are really\u00a0a part of human life,\u201d she added.\nWith the low population of veterinarians in public office, some municipalities also rely on municipal agriculturists to address the needs of pet owners and livestock raisers.\n\u201cSometimes the municipalities will cut costs by tasking the municipal agriculturists to do the job of veterinarians,\u201d Ms. Caguicla said. \u201cThey are good because they can do that, but they are not mandated to do that.\u201d\n\u201cFor the protection of all animals, including wildlife and companion animals, we need a veterinarian in each municipality,\u201d she added.\nIn October 2025, Abra Representative Joseph Sto. Ni\u00f1o B. Bernos and Solid North Party-list Representative Menchie Beronilla Bernos have filed House Bill No. 5059, known as the Animal Medical Center bill.\nThe proposed bill aims to establish veterinary clinics in all LGUs nationwide, providing veterinary consultations, vaccinations, diagnosis, treatment, and minor surgical procedures for pets and livestock animals. \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez", "date_published": "2026-03-05T18:48:07+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-05T18:48:07+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Rabies-vax-dog-PHILSTAR-MICHAEL-VARCAS.jpg", "tags": [ "almira louise s. martinez", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=733430", "url": "/opinion/2026/03/02/733430/stemming-the-obesity-epidemic-among-filipino-children/", "title": "Stemming the obesity epidemic among Filipino children", "content_html": "More than one billion people worldwide are living with obesity today. In 2025 alone, an estimated 543 million children and adolescents were overweight or obese. By 2035, projections suggest that nearly half of the global population \u2014 around four billion people \u2014 may be overweight or obese.
\nThese are not just abstract statistics. They represent children whose health, confidence, and future productivity may already be compromised.
\nAn overweight or obese child is more likely to experience stigmatization, bullying, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. The psychological burden can be as damaging as the physical one. Beyond the playground, childhood obesity also carries enormous long-term costs in terms of future healthcare expenditure and lost income.
\nBecause childhood obesity often persists into adulthood, millions of children are at heightened risk of developing serious non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, and certain cancers later in life. Globally, NCDs attributable to overweight and obesity contribute to approximately 1.7 million premature deaths annually. The broader economic toll is staggering: the projected global impact of people being overweight and obese is estimated to reach $3.23 trillion by 2030. The World Obesity Federation underscores these urgent realities as it leads the observance of World Obesity Day on March 4. High Body Mass Index (BMI) is not merely a cosmetic concern as it is a major risk factor for ischemic heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancers, liver and kidney disease, musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis and chronic back pain, and even neurological and mental health conditions.
\nObesity is no longer a distant or \u201cWestern\u201d problem. It is here.
\nIn the Philippines, 40% of adults, 13% of adolescents aged 10 to 19, and 14% of children aged five to 10 are overweight or obese. Four of the five leading causes of death in the country are NCDs \u2014 ischemic heart disease, cancers, cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes mellitus \u2014 all strongly associated with unhealthy weight.
\nThe economic consequences are equally alarming. In 2019, the cost of overweight and obesity in the Philippines was estimated at $5.06 billion (around P300 billion), equivalent to 1.3% of gross domestic product (GDP). By 2030, this figure is projected to more than double to $11.71 billion, or 4.45% of GDP.
\nBehind these numbers are Filipino families facing mounting healthcare expenses, lost workdays, and diminished quality of life.
\nA major driver of the global obesity epidemic is the growing consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These products undergo multiple industrial processes designed to enhance taste, convenience, and shelf life. They are often energy-dense, high in unhealthy fats, refined starches, free sugars, and salt, and low in fiber and essential nutrients.
\nIf a packaged product contains a long list of ingredients rarely used in home kitchens such as emulsifiers like polysorbates, flavor enhancers, artificial sweeteners, or high-fructose corn syrup, it is likely ultra-processed.
\nBeyond contributing to weight gain, UPFs are associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Their aggressive marketing, particularly to children, combined with easy availability and affordability, makes them a powerful force shaping dietary habits from a young age.
\nPreventing childhood obesity requires integrated, multi-stakeholder strategies that address not only individual choices but also the environments in which those choices are made. The National Nutrition Council, under the Department of Health, is working with partners such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization to advocate for stronger policies. These include clearer front-of-pack labeling, restrictions on marketing unhealthy food and beverages to children, and healthier food standards in schools. The Department of Education, through its School-Based Feeding Program, provides nutritious meals to undernourished learners in public schools. Health and nutrition education are integrated into the K-12 curriculum, teaching students about balanced diets, physical activity, and healthier lifestyle choices. Schools are also encouraged to limit junk food and promote healthier canteen offerings.
\nBut policy alone is not enough.
\nObesity must be recognized and treated as a chronic, relapsing disease and not simply a failure of willpower. Integrating obesity prevention and management into primary care is critical. This includes routine screening, counseling, behavioral interventions, and when appropriate, access to evidence-based treatments.
\nThe private sector also has a vital role. Employers can promote workplace wellness programs. Food manufacturers can reformulate products to reduce sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. The innovative pharmaceutical industry continues to invest in research and development to expand treatment options for people living with obesity and related NCDs, while working with stakeholders to improve access and strengthen health systems.
\nWorld Obesity Day is not merely about raising awareness.
\nIf we fail to address childhood obesity today, we risk normalizing early-onset diabetes, heart disease in midlife, and mounting economic strain on families and the healthcare system. But if we act decisively \u2014 through smarter policies, healthier food environments, strengthened primary care, and collaborative partnerships \u2014 we can alter the trajectory. Stemming the obesity epidemic among Filipino children is not only about reducing numbers on a scale. It is about safeguarding their health, protecting their dignity, and securing a more productive and resilient future for the nation.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "More than one billion people worldwide are living with obesity today. In 2025 alone, an estimated 543 million children and adolescents were overweight or obese. By 2035, projections suggest that nearly half of the global population \u2014 around four billion people \u2014 may be overweight or obese.\nThese are not just abstract statistics. They represent children whose health, confidence, and future productivity may already be compromised.\nAn overweight or obese child is more likely to experience stigmatization, bullying, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. The psychological burden can be as damaging as the physical one. Beyond the playground, childhood obesity also carries enormous long-term costs in terms of future healthcare expenditure and lost income.\nBecause childhood obesity often persists into adulthood, millions of children are at heightened risk of developing serious non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, and certain cancers later in life. Globally, NCDs attributable to overweight and obesity contribute to approximately 1.7 million premature deaths annually. The broader economic toll is staggering: the projected global impact of people being overweight and obese is estimated to reach $3.23 trillion by 2030. The World Obesity Federation underscores these urgent realities as it leads the observance of World Obesity Day on March 4. High Body Mass Index (BMI) is not merely a cosmetic concern as it is a major risk factor for ischemic heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancers, liver and kidney disease, musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis and chronic back pain, and even neurological and mental health conditions.\nObesity is no longer a distant or \u201cWestern\u201d problem. It is here.\nIn the Philippines, 40% of adults, 13% of adolescents aged 10 to 19, and 14% of children aged five to 10 are overweight or obese. Four of the five leading causes of death in the country are NCDs \u2014 ischemic heart disease, cancers, cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes mellitus \u2014 all strongly associated with unhealthy weight.\nThe economic consequences are equally alarming. In 2019, the cost of overweight and obesity in the Philippines was estimated at $5.06 billion (around P300 billion), equivalent to 1.3% of gross domestic product (GDP). By 2030, this figure is projected to more than double to $11.71 billion, or 4.45% of GDP.\nBehind these numbers are Filipino families facing mounting healthcare expenses, lost workdays, and diminished quality of life.\nA major driver of the global obesity epidemic is the growing consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These products undergo multiple industrial processes designed to enhance taste, convenience, and shelf life. They are often energy-dense, high in unhealthy fats, refined starches, free sugars, and salt, and low in fiber and essential nutrients.\nIf a packaged product contains a long list of ingredients rarely used in home kitchens such as emulsifiers like polysorbates, flavor enhancers, artificial sweeteners, or high-fructose corn syrup, it is likely ultra-processed.\nBeyond contributing to weight gain, UPFs are associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Their aggressive marketing, particularly to children, combined with easy availability and affordability, makes them a powerful force shaping dietary habits from a young age.\nPreventing childhood obesity requires integrated, multi-stakeholder strategies that address not only individual choices but also the environments in which those choices are made. The National Nutrition Council, under the Department of Health, is working with partners such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization to advocate for stronger policies. These include clearer front-of-pack labeling, restrictions on marketing unhealthy food and beverages to children, and healthier food standards in schools. The Department of Education, through its School-Based Feeding Program, provides nutritious meals to undernourished learners in public schools. Health and nutrition education are integrated into the K-12 curriculum, teaching students about balanced diets, physical activity, and healthier lifestyle choices. Schools are also encouraged to limit junk food and promote healthier canteen offerings.\nBut policy alone is not enough.\nObesity must be recognized and treated as a chronic, relapsing disease and not simply a failure of willpower. Integrating obesity prevention and management into primary care is critical. This includes routine screening, counseling, behavioral interventions, and when appropriate, access to evidence-based treatments.\nThe private sector also has a vital role. Employers can promote workplace wellness programs. Food manufacturers can reformulate products to reduce sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. The innovative pharmaceutical industry continues to invest in research and development to expand treatment options for people living with obesity and related NCDs, while working with stakeholders to improve access and strengthen health systems.\nWorld Obesity Day is not merely about raising awareness.\nIf we fail to address childhood obesity today, we risk normalizing early-onset diabetes, heart disease in midlife, and mounting economic strain on families and the healthcare system. But if we act decisively \u2014 through smarter policies, healthier food environments, strengthened primary care, and collaborative partnerships \u2014 we can alter the trajectory. Stemming the obesity epidemic among Filipino children is not only about reducing numbers on a scale. It is about safeguarding their health, protecting their dignity, and securing a more productive and resilient future for the nation. \n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-03-02T00:01:24+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-03-02T01:18:48+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/obese-boy-who-is-overweight-pink-background.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=733228", "url": "/health/2026/02/27/733228/doctors-push-for-a-unified-national-registry-on-rare-diseases/", "title": "Doctors push for a unified national registry on rare diseases", "content_html": "Health experts said a unified national registry for rare diseases in the Philippines will raise more awareness and support for Filipinos diagnosed with rare conditions.
\n\u201cThe policy makers don\u2019t have [data] that points to what we need. They can decide better, they can craft policies better if they get a better landscape of what rare conditions are,\u201d pediatrician and clinical geneticist Maria Melanie Liberty B. Alcausin told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0in an interview on Thursday.
\n\u201cIf there\u2019s no registry, there\u2019s no data. Without data, there\u2019s no policy, so the registry is really important; that’s why it’s at the top of our concern,\u201d she added.
\nThe lack of centralized data on rare diseases in the Philippines resulted in medical societies storing records individually.
\n\u201cFor example, I have a registry of my own patients with osteogenesis imperfecta because we’re the only ones who can manage it,\u201d she said. \u201cBut, it shouldn’t be like that. The registry should be unified, and right now, we don’t have that.\u201d
\nLoudella Calotes-Castillo, a child neurologist and neuromuscular specialist, echoed the same concern, underscoring how this gap could further isolate patients with rare diseases.
\n\u201cRare diseases are not always the first disease that doctors or medical professionals think of,\u201d she told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0on the sidelines of an event. \u201cAs you know, some of these rare diseases might be tagged as infectious, so they are more likely to be stigmatized by the community.\u201d
\n\u201cOne of the gaps is identifying who the patients with rare diseases are and how to cover for them? Because each system\u2026 are covering rare diseases,\u201d she added.
\nOn a global scale, Rare Diseases International found that 300 million people live with such conditions, and over 7,000 types of diseases fall under this category.
\nThe group also noted that people with rare diseases often face financial burden brought by hospital bills and treatments.
\nTo further support Filipinos diagnosed with such conditions, the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) also aims to expand its Z-benefits to ten rare genetic diseases this year.
\nThe conditions covered by the benefits are Maple Syrup Urine Disease, Methylmalonic Acidemia/Propionic Acidemia, Galactosemia, Phenylketonuria, Gaucher Disease, Pompe Disease, Fabry Disease, MPS II (Hunter Syndrome), MPS IV (Morquio Syndrome), and Osteogenesis Imperfecta.
\n\u201cThey are just polishing those ten, and what processes are involved, because there are more diagnostics and consultations since it\u2019s a genetic condition,\u201d Ms. Alcausin said.
\n\u201cSo there are a lot of processes, it’s very complicated, but at least you’re making some headway,\u201d she added. \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez
\n", "content_text": "Health experts said a unified national registry for rare diseases in the Philippines will raise more awareness and support for Filipinos diagnosed with rare conditions.\n\u201cThe policy makers don\u2019t have [data] that points to what we need. They can decide better, they can craft policies better if they get a better landscape of what rare conditions are,\u201d pediatrician and clinical geneticist Maria Melanie Liberty B. Alcausin told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0in an interview on Thursday.\n\u201cIf there\u2019s no registry, there\u2019s no data. Without data, there\u2019s no policy, so the registry is really important; that’s why it’s at the top of our concern,\u201d she added.\nThe lack of centralized data on rare diseases in the Philippines resulted in medical societies storing records individually.\n\u201cFor example, I have a registry of my own patients with osteogenesis imperfecta because we’re the only ones who can manage it,\u201d she said. \u201cBut, it shouldn’t be like that. The registry should be unified, and right now, we don’t have that.\u201d\nLoudella Calotes-Castillo, a child neurologist and neuromuscular specialist, echoed the same concern, underscoring how this gap could further isolate patients with rare diseases.\n\u201cRare diseases are not always the first disease that doctors or medical professionals think of,\u201d she told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0on the sidelines of an event. \u201cAs you know, some of these rare diseases might be tagged as infectious, so they are more likely to be stigmatized by the community.\u201d\n\u201cOne of the gaps is identifying who the patients with rare diseases are and how to cover for them? Because each system\u2026 are covering rare diseases,\u201d she added.\nOn a global scale, Rare Diseases International found that 300 million people live with such conditions, and over 7,000 types of diseases fall under this category.\nThe group also noted that people with rare diseases often face financial burden brought by hospital bills and treatments.\nTo further support Filipinos diagnosed with such conditions, the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) also aims to expand its Z-benefits to ten rare genetic diseases this year.\nThe conditions covered by the benefits are Maple Syrup Urine Disease, Methylmalonic Acidemia/Propionic Acidemia, Galactosemia, Phenylketonuria, Gaucher Disease, Pompe Disease, Fabry Disease, MPS II (Hunter Syndrome), MPS IV (Morquio Syndrome), and Osteogenesis Imperfecta.\n\u201cThey are just polishing those ten, and what processes are involved, because there are more diagnostics and consultations since it\u2019s a genetic condition,\u201d Ms. Alcausin said.\n\u201cSo there are a lot of processes, it’s very complicated, but at least you’re making some headway,\u201d she added. \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez", "date_published": "2026-02-27T08:43:59+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-27T08:43:59+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_0023-scaled.jpg", "tags": [ "almira louise s. martinez", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=732311", "url": "/health/2026/02/23/732311/philhealth-should-include-urine-test-for-detecting-signs-of-kidney-disease-health-advocate/", "title": "PhilHealth should include urine test for detecting signs of kidney\u00a0 disease \u2013 health advocate", "content_html": "Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is urged to include a laboratory test that detects early signs of kidney disease in its ongoing Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) to curb the catastrophic costs of the illness, an advocate said on Friday.
\nReynaldo S. Abacan Jr., president of Dialysis PH Support Group Inc., said that although PhilHealth has made progress in expanding benefits for people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), the agency could do more on the prevention side.
\nMr. Abacan urged PhilHealth to include the Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR) procedure, a lab test that can detect early kidney damage, in its primary care program, YAKAP, as currently approved laboratory test.
\n\u201cWhen kidney damage is detected through it, you can address it much earlier,\u201d Mr. Abacan, who has been a dialysis patient for 15 years, told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0in Filipino.
\n\u201cThis way, your future expenses will be reduced, and you can still protect yourself from the illness,\u201d he added.
\nAccording to a 2025 study published in the Journal of Medical Economics, the economic toll of CKD in the Philippines is estimated at P593.73 billion, which comprises 41.18% of the country\u2019s total healthcare spending in 2023.
\nOf the amount, P550.19 billion, or 44.4%, comes from household out-of-pocket expenses; P528.75 billion, or 42.6%, from government contributory financing schemes; and P161.35 billion, or 13%, from voluntary healthcare payment schemes, such as health maintenance organizations (HMOs).
\n\u201cThat\u2019s why we support the inclusion of UACR in the YAKAP program. Yes, it will be costly at first, but in the long run, we can avoid around P100,000 in medical costs,\u201d Mr. Abacan said.
\nUACR is a critical and highly effective test for detecting early signs of CKD, as it measures the amount of albumin\u2014a protein normally found in the blood\u2014in the urine, which can signal kidney damage even when symptoms are not yet present and estimated kidney function still appears normal, according to the US National Kidney Foundation.
\nAs of this writing, the UACR procedure is not yet included in the selected laboratory tests under the YAKAP program, according to PhilHealth\u2019s website.
\n大象传媒\u00a0reached out to PhilHealth to ask if the inclusion of the procedure is in the pipeline, but the agency has yet to respond.
\nApart from UACR, Mr. Abacan said that his organization, which has over 90,000 members, is also lobbying for the inclusion of other vital lab tests in the YAKAP program, including 2D Echo, ECG, and ultrasound, noting that these are costly for members to shoulder.
\nHe added that the agency has been receptive to their lobbying efforts. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is urged to include a laboratory test that detects early signs of kidney disease in its ongoing Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) to curb the catastrophic costs of the illness, an advocate said on Friday.\nReynaldo S. Abacan Jr., president of Dialysis PH Support Group Inc., said that although PhilHealth has made progress in expanding benefits for people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), the agency could do more on the prevention side.\nMr. Abacan urged PhilHealth to include the Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR) procedure, a lab test that can detect early kidney damage, in its primary care program, YAKAP, as currently approved laboratory test.\n\u201cWhen kidney damage is detected through it, you can address it much earlier,\u201d Mr. Abacan, who has been a dialysis patient for 15 years, told\u00a0大象传媒\u00a0in Filipino.\n\u201cThis way, your future expenses will be reduced, and you can still protect yourself from the illness,\u201d he added.\nAccording to a 2025 study published in the Journal of Medical Economics, the economic toll of CKD in the Philippines is estimated at P593.73 billion, which comprises 41.18% of the country\u2019s total healthcare spending in 2023.\nOf the amount, P550.19 billion, or 44.4%, comes from household out-of-pocket expenses; P528.75 billion, or 42.6%, from government contributory financing schemes; and P161.35 billion, or 13%, from voluntary healthcare payment schemes, such as health maintenance organizations (HMOs).\n\u201cThat\u2019s why we support the inclusion of UACR in the YAKAP program. Yes, it will be costly at first, but in the long run, we can avoid around P100,000 in medical costs,\u201d Mr. Abacan said.\nUACR is a critical and highly effective test for detecting early signs of CKD, as it measures the amount of albumin\u2014a protein normally found in the blood\u2014in the urine, which can signal kidney damage even when symptoms are not yet present and estimated kidney function still appears normal, according to the US National Kidney Foundation.\nAs of this writing, the UACR procedure is not yet included in the selected laboratory tests under the YAKAP program, according to PhilHealth\u2019s website.\n大象传媒\u00a0reached out to PhilHealth to ask if the inclusion of the procedure is in the pipeline, but the agency has yet to respond.\nApart from UACR, Mr. Abacan said that his organization, which has over 90,000 members, is also lobbying for the inclusion of other vital lab tests in the YAKAP program, including 2D Echo, ECG, and ultrasound, noting that these are costly for members to shoulder.\nHe added that the agency has been receptive to their lobbying efforts. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-02-23T19:23:10+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-23T19:23:10+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/uacr-mercury.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=731997", "url": "/opinion/2026/02/23/731997/preparing-for-longer-living-in-the-philippines/", "title": "Preparing for longer living in the Philippines", "content_html": "People worldwide are living longer, driven by advances in social and economic development as well as improvements in healthcare. At the same time, trends such as urbanization and higher educational attainment have contributed to smaller families and declining birth rates, resulting in fewer children in many countries. Together, these forces are reshaping global demographics.
\nAs a result, the population aged 60 and older is expanding rapidly, in many cases surpassing the number of younger people which is a shift known as population aging.
\nThe World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2030, one in six people globally will be aged 60 years or older. Meanwhile, the number of persons aged 80 years or above is projected to triple between 2020 and 2050, reaching 426 million. While population aging began in high-income countries such as Japan, where nearly 30% of the population is already over 60, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are now experiencing significant demographic shifts. By 2050, two-thirds of the world\u2019s population over 60 will live in LMICs.
\nLonger lifespans create opportunities for individuals to remain active, productive, and engaged. However, the WHO warns that these gains also present challenges unless societies adapt their policies, systems, and institutions across sectors.
\nThe Philippines is no exception.
\nAccording to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), there were 10.98 million Filipinos aged 60 years and older in 2025, comprising 9.6% of the country\u2019s 113.7 million population. This places the country just below the 10% threshold commonly used by global institutions such as the World Bank to classify an aging society. At current trends, the PSA projects that the Philippines will cross this threshold within the next few years, with senior citizens accounting for approximately 11% of the population by 2030.
\nThis demographic transition carries profound implications for economic resilience, social protection, and healthcare delivery.
\nData presented during a 2019 Senate committee hearing on the National Commission of Senior Citizens Act revealed that 55% of Filipino senior citizens have no pension. Among those with financial support, 23% receive pensions from the private sector, 6% receive government pensions, and 16% rely on a monthly social pension of only P500.
\nHealthcare capacity presents another major concern.
\nA Department of Health (DoH) report highlighted a significant deficit in geriatric care, citing the lack of specialized geriatric wards and a severely low ratio of geriatricians relative to the elderly population. Geriatricians are physicians with specialized training in caring for older adults, particularly those with multiple chronic conditions and complex health needs.
\nRecognizing these challenges, members of the Senate have expressed concern that many older Filipinos, particularly those with limited financial resources, may struggle to access long-term and specialized care.
\nIn response, Senate Bill No. 1302 was filed in September 2025. The bill mandates the establishment of a tertiary specialty hospital under the DoH dedicated to the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of older persons.
\nIf enacted, the existing National Center for Geriatric Health (NCGH) in Manila would be upgraded and renamed the Philippine Geriatric Center (PGC). As the National Specialty Referral Center for geriatric care, the PGC would provide specialized services, promote research, facilitate education and training for healthcare providers, and coordinate a national approach to elderly healthcare.
\nThe bill further mandates the creation of a National Geriatric Health Service Delivery Plan and the establishment of regional geriatric centers to ensure nationwide access. It also proposes a Geriatric Human Resource Development Program aimed at strengthening the country\u2019s capacity through scholarships, incentives, and continuing professional development.
\nWhile these structural reforms are essential, addressing the long-term impact of population aging requires more than expanding treatment capacity.
\nIt demands a decisive shift toward prevention.
\nRapid population aging intensifies pressure on health systems, largely due to the rising prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Although NCDs affect individuals across all age groups, their incidence increases sharply with advancing age, making them leading contributors to mortality, hospitalization, frailty, and healthcare expenditure.
\nPrevention therefore becomes central to sustaining both individual well-being and health system resilience.
\nA comprehensive response must span the full continuum of care, from health promotion and disease prevention to early detection, diagnosis, and timely treatment. The WHO emphasizes that lifelong prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer, while also delaying functional decline.
\nEqually critical is the provision of integrated, person-centered primary healthcare tailored to the needs of older adults. Such an approach enables earlier detection, better management of chronic conditions, and improved quality of life.
\nEnsuring access to long-term care services including rehabilitation, palliative care, and social support further helps older persons maintain independence and dignity.
\nAt the same time, investments in preventive measures such as adult immunization play a vital role in promoting healthy aging. Vaccination across the lifespan protects older adults from preventable diseases, reduces complications, and eases pressure on healthcare systems.
\nFor aging populations often burdened by multiple chronic conditions and functional decline, protection-oriented strategies are not optional as they are indispensable.
\nHealthy aging is not achieved by treating disease alone, but by preventing avoidable illness, preserving function, and enabling older Filipinos to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "People worldwide are living longer, driven by advances in social and economic development as well as improvements in healthcare. At the same time, trends such as urbanization and higher educational attainment have contributed to smaller families and declining birth rates, resulting in fewer children in many countries. Together, these forces are reshaping global demographics.\nAs a result, the population aged 60 and older is expanding rapidly, in many cases surpassing the number of younger people which is a shift known as population aging.\nThe World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2030, one in six people globally will be aged 60 years or older. Meanwhile, the number of persons aged 80 years or above is projected to triple between 2020 and 2050, reaching 426 million. While population aging began in high-income countries such as Japan, where nearly 30% of the population is already over 60, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are now experiencing significant demographic shifts. By 2050, two-thirds of the world\u2019s population over 60 will live in LMICs.\nLonger lifespans create opportunities for individuals to remain active, productive, and engaged. However, the WHO warns that these gains also present challenges unless societies adapt their policies, systems, and institutions across sectors.\nThe Philippines is no exception.\nAccording to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), there were 10.98 million Filipinos aged 60 years and older in 2025, comprising 9.6% of the country\u2019s 113.7 million population. This places the country just below the 10% threshold commonly used by global institutions such as the World Bank to classify an aging society. At current trends, the PSA projects that the Philippines will cross this threshold within the next few years, with senior citizens accounting for approximately 11% of the population by 2030.\nThis demographic transition carries profound implications for economic resilience, social protection, and healthcare delivery.\nData presented during a 2019 Senate committee hearing on the National Commission of Senior Citizens Act revealed that 55% of Filipino senior citizens have no pension. Among those with financial support, 23% receive pensions from the private sector, 6% receive government pensions, and 16% rely on a monthly social pension of only P500.\nHealthcare capacity presents another major concern.\nA Department of Health (DoH) report highlighted a significant deficit in geriatric care, citing the lack of specialized geriatric wards and a severely low ratio of geriatricians relative to the elderly population. Geriatricians are physicians with specialized training in caring for older adults, particularly those with multiple chronic conditions and complex health needs.\nRecognizing these challenges, members of the Senate have expressed concern that many older Filipinos, particularly those with limited financial resources, may struggle to access long-term and specialized care.\nIn response, Senate Bill No. 1302 was filed in September 2025. The bill mandates the establishment of a tertiary specialty hospital under the DoH dedicated to the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of older persons.\nIf enacted, the existing National Center for Geriatric Health (NCGH) in Manila would be upgraded and renamed the Philippine Geriatric Center (PGC). As the National Specialty Referral Center for geriatric care, the PGC would provide specialized services, promote research, facilitate education and training for healthcare providers, and coordinate a national approach to elderly healthcare.\nThe bill further mandates the creation of a National Geriatric Health Service Delivery Plan and the establishment of regional geriatric centers to ensure nationwide access. It also proposes a Geriatric Human Resource Development Program aimed at strengthening the country\u2019s capacity through scholarships, incentives, and continuing professional development.\nWhile these structural reforms are essential, addressing the long-term impact of population aging requires more than expanding treatment capacity.\nIt demands a decisive shift toward prevention.\nRapid population aging intensifies pressure on health systems, largely due to the rising prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Although NCDs affect individuals across all age groups, their incidence increases sharply with advancing age, making them leading contributors to mortality, hospitalization, frailty, and healthcare expenditure.\nPrevention therefore becomes central to sustaining both individual well-being and health system resilience.\nA comprehensive response must span the full continuum of care, from health promotion and disease prevention to early detection, diagnosis, and timely treatment. The WHO emphasizes that lifelong prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer, while also delaying functional decline.\nEqually critical is the provision of integrated, person-centered primary healthcare tailored to the needs of older adults. Such an approach enables earlier detection, better management of chronic conditions, and improved quality of life.\nEnsuring access to long-term care services including rehabilitation, palliative care, and social support further helps older persons maintain independence and dignity.\nAt the same time, investments in preventive measures such as adult immunization play a vital role in promoting healthy aging. Vaccination across the lifespan protects older adults from preventable diseases, reduces complications, and eases pressure on healthcare systems.\nFor aging populations often burdened by multiple chronic conditions and functional decline, protection-oriented strategies are not optional as they are indispensable.\nHealthy aging is not achieved by treating disease alone, but by preventing avoidable illness, preserving function, and enabling older Filipinos to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-02-23T00:01:44+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-23T02:23:48+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/happiness-cheerful-elderly-woman-men-talking-with-female-caregiver-nurse-doctor-having-health-checking-consult-living-areacaretakers-with-senior-couple-sitting-living-room-nursing-home.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=730795", "url": "/health/2026/02/16/730795/encephalitis-can-look-like-common-illness-experts-urge-public-to-learn-flames/", "title": "Encephalitis can look like common illness; experts urge public to learn \u201cFLAMES\u201d", "content_html": "Encephalitis International on Monday launched a new recognition tool to help Filipinos easily identify early warning signs of encephalitis, a disease that, if diagnosed late, could lead to severe disability or death.
\nEncephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, which affects three people every minute globally, the organization said in a statement.
\nHowever, almost eight in ten adults are unaware of the condition, as its early symptoms may only resemble common illnesses.
\nAccording to the World Health Organization, encephalitis is a leading cause of neurological health loss in children under five and a growing public health concern across all ages.
\nAlthough rare, it causes severe brain injury and long-term disability, with survivors facing lasting cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and physical challenges that disrupt daily life.
\nDr. Ava Easton, chief executive of Encephalitis International, said that encephalitis progresses quickly, yet public awareness remains dangerously low.
\n\u201cWhen warning signs are missed, diagnosis is delayed, and the risk of death or lifelong disability rises. Early recognition remains one of the most effective ways to protect brain health and save lives,\u201d Ms. Easton said.
\nTo bridge the gap between first symptoms and accurate diagnosis, Encephalitis International introduced FLAMES, a recognition tool that uses an acronym to highlight the condition\u2019s urgent warning signs.
\nThese include (F) flu-like symptoms, (L) loss of consciousness, (A) acute headache, (M) memory problems, (E) emotional and behavioral changes, and (S) seizures. These symptoms are applicable across both infectious and autoimmune encephalitis and signal the need for immediate medical attention.
\nThe structured recall tool was launched ahead of World Encephalitis Day on Feb. 22 and can be used in both clinical settings and community awareness campaigns.
\nWhen encephalitis is recognized early, treatment can begin sooner and chances of recovery improve, Dr. Ferron F. Ocampo, specialist in adult neurology and neuroinfectious diseases said.
\n\u201cStrengthening symptom awareness in communities and among frontline providers is essential,\u201d Mr. Ocampo said.
\nIn a low- to middle-income country like the Philippines, this strategy matters, as the disease burden is intensified by limited neurological services and restricted access to treatment and medicines, the organization said.
\nAccording to the World Health Organization, the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) virus, caused by mosquitoes, is the main culprit of viral encephalitis in many countries in Asia, including the Philippines.
\nJE cases in the country reached 1,532 in 2020 and 988 in 2021, with an incidence of around 0.7 per 100,000 children under 15 years, highest in the country\u2019s northern region.
\nSince 2019, the Department of Health (DOH) has rolled out vaccinations for children aged nine months to under five in areas with high JE cases.
\nEncephalitis International is urging both the general public and non-specialist medical providers to use the FLAMES strategy.
\nCommunities are also encouraged to learn and share awareness of the warning signs to reduce deaths and disabilities from encephalitis. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "Encephalitis International on Monday launched a new recognition tool to help Filipinos easily identify early warning signs of encephalitis, a disease that, if diagnosed late, could lead to severe disability or death.\nEncephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, which affects three people every minute globally, the organization said in a statement.\nHowever, almost eight in ten adults are unaware of the condition, as its early symptoms may only resemble common illnesses.\nAccording to the World Health Organization, encephalitis is a leading cause of neurological health loss in children under five and a growing public health concern across all ages.\nAlthough rare, it causes severe brain injury and long-term disability, with survivors facing lasting cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and physical challenges that disrupt daily life.\nDr. Ava Easton, chief executive of Encephalitis International, said that encephalitis progresses quickly, yet public awareness remains dangerously low.\n\u201cWhen warning signs are missed, diagnosis is delayed, and the risk of death or lifelong disability rises. Early recognition remains one of the most effective ways to protect brain health and save lives,\u201d Ms. Easton said.\nTo bridge the gap between first symptoms and accurate diagnosis, Encephalitis International introduced FLAMES, a recognition tool that uses an acronym to highlight the condition\u2019s urgent warning signs.\nThese include (F) flu-like symptoms, (L) loss of consciousness, (A) acute headache, (M) memory problems, (E) emotional and behavioral changes, and (S) seizures. These symptoms are applicable across both infectious and autoimmune encephalitis and signal the need for immediate medical attention.\nThe structured recall tool was launched ahead of World Encephalitis Day on Feb. 22 and can be used in both clinical settings and community awareness campaigns.\nWhen encephalitis is recognized early, treatment can begin sooner and chances of recovery improve, Dr. Ferron F. Ocampo, specialist in adult neurology and neuroinfectious diseases said.\n\u201cStrengthening symptom awareness in communities and among frontline providers is essential,\u201d Mr. Ocampo said.\nIn a low- to middle-income country like the Philippines, this strategy matters, as the disease burden is intensified by limited neurological services and restricted access to treatment and medicines, the organization said.\nAccording to the World Health Organization, the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) virus, caused by mosquitoes, is the main culprit of viral encephalitis in many countries in Asia, including the Philippines.\nJE cases in the country reached 1,532 in 2020 and 988 in 2021, with an incidence of around 0.7 per 100,000 children under 15 years, highest in the country\u2019s northern region.\nSince 2019, the Department of Health (DOH) has rolled out vaccinations for children aged nine months to under five in areas with high JE cases.\nEncephalitis International is urging both the general public and non-specialist medical providers to use the FLAMES strategy.\nCommunities are also encouraged to learn and share awareness of the warning signs to reduce deaths and disabilities from encephalitis. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-02-16T16:18:39+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-16T16:18:39+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FLAMES2BInfographiic.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=730598", "url": "/opinion/2026/02/16/730598/mitigating-the-growing-threat-of-multidrug-resistant-salmonella/", "title": "Mitigating the growing threat of multidrug-resistant Salmonella", "content_html": "Salmonella is a group of bacteria that remains one of the leading causes of diarrhea and foodborne outbreaks worldwide, including in the Philippines. Infection with Salmonella \u2014 known as salmonellosis \u2014 commonly occurs after consuming contaminated food, particularly products of animal origin such as eggs, poultry, meat, and milk. However, other foods, including vegetables contaminated through manure used as fertilizer, can also transmit the bacteria. Symptoms typically include fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.
\nIn many cases, salmonellosis is self-limiting. Most healthy individuals recover without specific treatment, with supportive care such as fluid and electrolyte replacement sufficient to manage symptoms. Yet the illness is far from trivial. Severe dehydration can develop, particularly among children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In such cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
\nAntibiotics may be required for vulnerable patients or severe infections. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend antibiotic treatment for mild or moderate salmonellosis in otherwise healthy individuals. This guidance is grounded in science since unnecessary antibiotic use may not fully eliminate the bacteria and can instead promote the survival of resistant strains. This phenomenon is part of the broader challenge known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
\nAMR is now recognized as one of the most serious global public health threats. The WHO estimates that bacterial AMR directly caused 1.27 million deaths globally in 2019 and contributed to nearly 5 million deaths. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and agriculture accelerate this process. Over time, bacteria evolve mechanisms that allow them to survive treatments that once killed them.
\nOf particular concern is the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, sometimes referred to as \u201csuperbugs.\u201d These organisms are resistant to multiple antibiotics, severely limiting treatment options. Infections caused by MDR bacteria are often more difficult, more expensive, and sometimes impossible to treat. They lead to longer illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and increased risk of complications and death.
\nFoodborne pathogens are not exempt from this trend. The Philippines, as both a major producer and consumer of meat, faces heightened vulnerability. This risk was underscored by a study conducted by biologists from the University of the Philippines Diliman examining Salmonella strains isolated from chicken meat sold in retail wet markets across Metro Manila. The findings were concerning as the predominant Salmonella strains exhibited resistance to numerous antibiotics, with some resistant to as many as 12 different drugs.
\nThese results carry important implications for both public health and food safety. Resistant bacteria circulating in food supply chains can lead to infections that are harder to manage clinically. Moreover, wet markets may inadvertently facilitate the spread of resistant organisms through cross-contamination. The risks extend beyond markets into kitchens and households, where improper food handling can enable transmission.
\nAddressing this challenge requires a coordinated and multi-sectoral response. Surveillance systems must be strengthened to monitor foodborne pathogens and resistance patterns. Equally critical are policies governing antimicrobial use at the farm level. Responsible antibiotic stewardship in animal production is essential to slow the development of resistance.
\nInvestment in research also plays a pivotal role. The development of antimicrobial alternatives, improved diagnostics, and new treatment strategies can help preserve the effectiveness of existing medicines. Policymakers must recognize that AMR is not solely a clinical issue since it is a food security, economic, and national development concern.
\nConsumers likewise have an indispensable role in mitigation. Basic food safety practices remain among the most effective defenses. Hands, kitchen surfaces, and utensils should be kept clean and sanitized. Raw meat, poultry, and seafood must be handled separately from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination. Safe water should always be used in food preparation.
\nProper cooking is equally important. Heating food to at least 70\u00b0C significantly reduces bacterial risks. Perishable food should be refrigerated promptly, ideally at 5\u00b0C or below. Microorganisms multiply rapidly when food is left at room temperature for extended periods.
\nFinally, combating AMR demands sustained innovation. The research-based pharmaceutical industry continues to invest in antibiotic development, yet scientific and economic barriers remain. Revitalizing the antibiotic pipeline requires supportive policy frameworks, incentives, and global cooperation.
\nEqually important is stewardship. Preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics, new and old alike, depends on their appropriate use. Preventive measures, including vaccination, must also be fully leveraged. Vaccines that reduce infections ultimately reduce antibiotic demand, slowing the spread of resistance.
\nMultidrug-resistant Salmonella is more than a laboratory finding. It is a warning signal, one that calls for vigilance, responsible practices, and decisive policy action.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "Salmonella is a group of bacteria that remains one of the leading causes of diarrhea and foodborne outbreaks worldwide, including in the Philippines. Infection with Salmonella \u2014 known as salmonellosis \u2014 commonly occurs after consuming contaminated food, particularly products of animal origin such as eggs, poultry, meat, and milk. However, other foods, including vegetables contaminated through manure used as fertilizer, can also transmit the bacteria. Symptoms typically include fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.\nIn many cases, salmonellosis is self-limiting. Most healthy individuals recover without specific treatment, with supportive care such as fluid and electrolyte replacement sufficient to manage symptoms. Yet the illness is far from trivial. Severe dehydration can develop, particularly among children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In such cases, hospitalization may be necessary.\nAntibiotics may be required for vulnerable patients or severe infections. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend antibiotic treatment for mild or moderate salmonellosis in otherwise healthy individuals. This guidance is grounded in science since unnecessary antibiotic use may not fully eliminate the bacteria and can instead promote the survival of resistant strains. This phenomenon is part of the broader challenge known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR).\nAMR is now recognized as one of the most serious global public health threats. The WHO estimates that bacterial AMR directly caused 1.27 million deaths globally in 2019 and contributed to nearly 5 million deaths. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and agriculture accelerate this process. Over time, bacteria evolve mechanisms that allow them to survive treatments that once killed them.\nOf particular concern is the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, sometimes referred to as \u201csuperbugs.\u201d These organisms are resistant to multiple antibiotics, severely limiting treatment options. Infections caused by MDR bacteria are often more difficult, more expensive, and sometimes impossible to treat. They lead to longer illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and increased risk of complications and death.\nFoodborne pathogens are not exempt from this trend. The Philippines, as both a major producer and consumer of meat, faces heightened vulnerability. This risk was underscored by a study conducted by biologists from the University of the Philippines Diliman examining Salmonella strains isolated from chicken meat sold in retail wet markets across Metro Manila. The findings were concerning as the predominant Salmonella strains exhibited resistance to numerous antibiotics, with some resistant to as many as 12 different drugs.\nThese results carry important implications for both public health and food safety. Resistant bacteria circulating in food supply chains can lead to infections that are harder to manage clinically. Moreover, wet markets may inadvertently facilitate the spread of resistant organisms through cross-contamination. The risks extend beyond markets into kitchens and households, where improper food handling can enable transmission.\nAddressing this challenge requires a coordinated and multi-sectoral response. Surveillance systems must be strengthened to monitor foodborne pathogens and resistance patterns. Equally critical are policies governing antimicrobial use at the farm level. Responsible antibiotic stewardship in animal production is essential to slow the development of resistance.\nInvestment in research also plays a pivotal role. The development of antimicrobial alternatives, improved diagnostics, and new treatment strategies can help preserve the effectiveness of existing medicines. Policymakers must recognize that AMR is not solely a clinical issue since it is a food security, economic, and national development concern.\nConsumers likewise have an indispensable role in mitigation. Basic food safety practices remain among the most effective defenses. Hands, kitchen surfaces, and utensils should be kept clean and sanitized. Raw meat, poultry, and seafood must be handled separately from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination. Safe water should always be used in food preparation.\nProper cooking is equally important. Heating food to at least 70\u00b0C significantly reduces bacterial risks. Perishable food should be refrigerated promptly, ideally at 5\u00b0C or below. Microorganisms multiply rapidly when food is left at room temperature for extended periods.\nFinally, combating AMR demands sustained innovation. The research-based pharmaceutical industry continues to invest in antibiotic development, yet scientific and economic barriers remain. Revitalizing the antibiotic pipeline requires supportive policy frameworks, incentives, and global cooperation.\nEqually important is stewardship. Preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics, new and old alike, depends on their appropriate use. Preventive measures, including vaccination, must also be fully leveraged. Vaccines that reduce infections ultimately reduce antibiotic demand, slowing the spread of resistance.\nMultidrug-resistant Salmonella is more than a laboratory finding. It is a warning signal, one that calls for vigilance, responsible practices, and decisive policy action. \n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-02-16T00:01:13+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-16T00:48:11+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Salmonella-bacteria.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=729843", "url": "/health/2026/02/11/729843/gcmc-expansion-in-cabuyao-backed-by-private-firms/", "title": "GCMC expansion in Cabuyao backed by private firms", "content_html": "Regional healthcare provider Global Care Medical Center (GCMC) said its partnership with investment firm LeapFrog Investments and equity firm Navegar has secured growth capital to support the expansion of its Cabuyao facility.
\n\u201cThis is very promising. I have a lot of expansion here, a new medical arts building, a new private room, we expanded another 30 private rooms here in Cabuyao,\u201d GCMC Chair Ricardo D. Celino told reporters in an interview on Tuesday.
\n\u201cWe\u2019re going to put up a cat lab (Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory), we purchased an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), we put up another 20 chairs of dialysis, and we expanded our laboratory,\u201d he added.
\nApart from its expansion plans in Laguna, the GCMC also aims to improve healthcare services in other provinces in Northern Luzon, such as Pangasinan.
\n\u201cI don\u2019t want to divulge whatever investment we are planning because we are still looking for another, not just one, but there\u2019s another opportunity in the northern part of Luzon,\u201d Mr. Celino said.
\nBiju Mohandas, partner and global lead for healthcare at Leapfrog Investments, said that the firm\u2019s first investment in the Philippines, through its partnership with the hospital network, reflects its confidence in the country\u2019s economic growth.
\n\u201cWe are a fund, as I mentioned earlier, that money is our profit with purpose. This seems like a great opportunity to achieve both because there is a massive demand supply mismatch,\u201d he said in a media briefing at the partnership launch.
\n\u201cIf you service it well, with good quality, with the right partners, then you will reap financial rewards as well, and importantly, touch millions of lives,\u201d he added.
\nFor Navegar Vice President for Origination Juan Carlos Camara, partnering with GCMC amplifies the firm\u2019s push to create a more inclusive and accessible community. \u201cI\u2019d like to see its impact on the lives of Filipinos for not just the next few years, but decades and possibly touch the lives of the communities that we operate in.\u201d
\nThe Laguna-based hospital network currently operates four general hospitals and a specialized cancer care center, with a total capacity of over 300 licensed beds supported by 670 doctors. \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez
\n", "content_text": "Regional healthcare provider Global Care Medical Center (GCMC) said its partnership with investment firm LeapFrog Investments and equity firm Navegar has secured growth capital to support the expansion of its Cabuyao facility.\n\u201cThis is very promising. I have a lot of expansion here, a new medical arts building, a new private room, we expanded another 30 private rooms here in Cabuyao,\u201d GCMC Chair Ricardo D. Celino told reporters in an interview on Tuesday.\n\u201cWe\u2019re going to put up a cat lab (Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory), we purchased an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), we put up another 20 chairs of dialysis, and we expanded our laboratory,\u201d he added.\nApart from its expansion plans in Laguna, the GCMC also aims to improve healthcare services in other provinces in Northern Luzon, such as Pangasinan.\n\u201cI don\u2019t want to divulge whatever investment we are planning because we are still looking for another, not just one, but there\u2019s another opportunity in the northern part of Luzon,\u201d Mr. Celino said.\nBiju Mohandas, partner and global lead for healthcare at Leapfrog Investments, said that the firm\u2019s first investment in the Philippines, through its partnership with the hospital network, reflects its confidence in the country\u2019s economic growth.\n\u201cWe are a fund, as I mentioned earlier, that money is our profit with purpose. This seems like a great opportunity to achieve both because there is a massive demand supply mismatch,\u201d he said in a media briefing at the partnership launch.\n\u201cIf you service it well, with good quality, with the right partners, then you will reap financial rewards as well, and importantly, touch millions of lives,\u201d he added.\nFor Navegar Vice President for Origination Juan Carlos Camara, partnering with GCMC amplifies the firm\u2019s push to create a more inclusive and accessible community. \u201cI\u2019d like to see its impact on the lives of Filipinos for not just the next few years, but decades and possibly touch the lives of the communities that we operate in.\u201d\nThe Laguna-based hospital network currently operates four general hospitals and a specialized cancer care center, with a total capacity of over 300 licensed beds supported by 670 doctors. \u2014 Almira Louise S. Martinez", "date_published": "2026-02-11T18:31:32+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-11T18:31:32+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/GCMC-expansion-in-Cabuyao-backed-by-private-firms.jpg", "tags": [ "almira louise s. martinez", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=729533", "url": "/health/2026/02/10/729533/weight-loss-drug-tirzepatide-advised-only-for-adults-with-diabetes-and-obesity-according-to-zuellig-pharma/", "title": "Weight-loss drug tirzepatide advised only for adults with diabetes and obesity according to Zuellig Pharma", "content_html": "Tirzepatide, a recently popular weight-loss drug, is advised for individuals with certain cases of type 2 diabetes and obesity, according to Zuellig Pharma, a pharmaceutical company.
\nThe drug, fondly known as “Tirz,” recently gained popularity due to its dual-action mechanism, which can help regulate both blood sugar and body weight.
\nIn an email interview, Zuellig Pharma said that tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro), for instance, targets both GIP and GLP-1\u2014hormones that help regulate blood sugar after meals\u2014to support blood sugar control and weight management.
\n\u201cBy targeting both GIP and GLP-1, the drug works on the brain and metabolism at the same time,\u201d said David Cummings, a professor at the University of Washington.
\n\u201cThis doesn\u2019t just lower blood sugar; it resets the body\u2019s weight set-point, offering clinical results that were previously difficult to achieve through traditional means,\u201d Mr. Cummings added during a forum led by Zuellig Pharma on Jan. 27.
\nThe brand Mounjaro KwikPen, exclusively and authorized for distribution by Zuellig Pharma, is the only tirzepatide brand approved in the country by the Food and Drug Administration as of this writing.
\nMeanwhile, Dr. Gyneth Lourdes Bibera, Zuellig Pharma’s medical director, said that tirzepatide is advised for adults whose type 2 diabetes is not sufficiently controlled with diet and exercise.
\nIt is also recommended for adults with obesity (BMI \u2265 30) or overweight (BMI 27\u201329.9) who have at least one weight-related health condition, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or dyslipidemia, among others.
\nTirzepatide can be prescribed alone when metformin is considered inappropriate due to intolerance or contraindications, or in combination with other diabetes medications for better blood sugar control.
\n\u201cIt is also indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight management, including weight loss and weight maintenance,\u201d Ms. Bibera added, noting that this applies to adults meeting the criteria above.
\nThe World Health Organization (WHO) supports the use of GLP-1 therapies, including tirzepatide, for adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
\nWHO also noted that these medications should be used alongside lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, while emphasizing the need for monitoring, long-term safety evaluation, and equitable access.
\nThe Mounjaro KwikPen is available at leading drugstores nationwide, but only with a doctor\u2019s prescription. \u2014\u00a0Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "Tirzepatide, a recently popular weight-loss drug, is advised for individuals with certain cases of type 2 diabetes and obesity, according to Zuellig Pharma, a pharmaceutical company.\nThe drug, fondly known as “Tirz,” recently gained popularity due to its dual-action mechanism, which can help regulate both blood sugar and body weight.\nIn an email interview, Zuellig Pharma said that tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro), for instance, targets both GIP and GLP-1\u2014hormones that help regulate blood sugar after meals\u2014to support blood sugar control and weight management.\n\u201cBy targeting both GIP and GLP-1, the drug works on the brain and metabolism at the same time,\u201d said David Cummings, a professor at the University of Washington.\n\u201cThis doesn\u2019t just lower blood sugar; it resets the body\u2019s weight set-point, offering clinical results that were previously difficult to achieve through traditional means,\u201d Mr. Cummings added during a forum led by Zuellig Pharma on Jan. 27.\nThe brand Mounjaro KwikPen, exclusively and authorized for distribution by Zuellig Pharma, is the only tirzepatide brand approved in the country by the Food and Drug Administration as of this writing.\nMeanwhile, Dr. Gyneth Lourdes Bibera, Zuellig Pharma’s medical director, said that tirzepatide is advised for adults whose type 2 diabetes is not sufficiently controlled with diet and exercise.\nIt is also recommended for adults with obesity (BMI \u2265 30) or overweight (BMI 27\u201329.9) who have at least one weight-related health condition, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or dyslipidemia, among others.\nTirzepatide can be prescribed alone when metformin is considered inappropriate due to intolerance or contraindications, or in combination with other diabetes medications for better blood sugar control.\n\u201cIt is also indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight management, including weight loss and weight maintenance,\u201d Ms. Bibera added, noting that this applies to adults meeting the criteria above.\nThe World Health Organization (WHO) supports the use of GLP-1 therapies, including tirzepatide, for adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.\nWHO also noted that these medications should be used alongside lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, while emphasizing the need for monitoring, long-term safety evaluation, and equitable access.\nThe Mounjaro KwikPen is available at leading drugstores nationwide, but only with a doctor\u2019s prescription. \u2014\u00a0Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-02-10T11:38:01+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-10T11:38:01+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/agarwalekwensi/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63a6222a994ecdcd0783bb257b7c4e6d18b49dfa789dd168af5420ab8a45082c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/waist-8308829_1280.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] }, { "id": "/?p=729064", "url": "/opinion/2026/02/09/729064/rsv-prevention-starts-with-awareness/", "title": "RSV: Prevention starts with awareness", "content_html": "The cooler temperatures the country has been experiencing in recent months are a welcome relief from the usual sweltering heat of the dry season. Yet this seasonal respite carries a hidden health risk. Lower temperatures often coincide with a rise in influenza-like illness (ILI), including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a highly contagious respiratory infection. It imposes a heavy socioeconomic burden through healthcare costs, productivity losses, and added strain on an already stretched health system.
\nRSV causes flu-like symptoms such as coughing and sneezing, runny nose and congestion, fever, sore throat, headache, and fatigue. In more severe cases, wheezing and difficulty breathing may develop. The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for RSV, and mild infections are managed through supportive care, including hydration and over-the-counter medications to relieve fever and nasal congestion. Serious cases, particularly among infants and older adults, often require hospitalization.
\nGlobally, RSV is one of the most common causes of acute lower respiratory infection in children and a major cause of severe respiratory disease among older persons. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly all children are infected with RSV by their second birthday. Each year, RSV accounts for more than 3.6 million hospitalizations and approximately 100,000 deaths among children under five years old. Alarmingly, 97% of RSV-related deaths in children occur in low- and middle-income countries, where access to timely and adequate supportive care remains limited.
\nRSV infection in early life can also have lasting consequences. The WHO warns that lower respiratory tract infection due to RSV may lead to repeated hospitalizations during infancy, recurrent wheezing or asthma, and impaired lung health later in life. Among older adults, RSV can worsen chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart failure, often resulting in serious complications.
\nLocal surveillance data reinforce the urgency of the problem. Findings from the RSV Surveillance Pilot Project of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) from May 2022 to April 2024 show that RSV transmission in the Philippines occurs year-round, with cases peaking from May to December. RSV accounted for a higher disease burden than influenza and SARS-CoV-2 among children aged two years and below, with infants under six months facing the highest risk of severe infection. Based on data from Jan. 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025, the country\u2019s annual RSV positivity rate stood at 20%, reaching as high as 66.7% during peak season.
\nRSV positivity rate refers to the proportion of tested individuals who receive a positive result. A higher positivity rate indicates wider virus circulation in the community. Tracking this measure is an important public health tool. It helps anticipate healthcare demand, informs hospital preparedness, and guides preventive strategies such as vaccination campaigns and public advisories.
\nLaunched in 2021 and led by the Philippine National Influenza Center, the RSV Surveillance Pilot Project aims to integrate RSV monitoring into the country\u2019s broader National Respiratory Surveillance System. This initiative provides evidence to support timely public health action and strengthen preparedness.
\nIn the absence of a definitive treatment, prevention remains our most effective defense. Basic measures still matter: staying home when sick, wearing a mask in public spaces, covering one\u2019s mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, practicing frequent handwashing, and regularly disinfecting commonly touched surfaces.
\nImmunization is another vital pillar of RSV prevention. Maternal immunization is recommended as an effective way to protect infants, with health experts advising a single dose of RSV vaccine for pregnant women from 28 weeks of gestation, ideally administered at least two weeks before delivery to allow optimal antibody transfer to the newborn. For older adults, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends RSV vaccination for everyone aged 75 and above, as well as for adults aged 50 to 74 who are at increased risk of severe disease, including those with chronic cardiopulmonary conditions, diabetes, or other underlying illnesses. Speak with your doctor for a more detailed discussion.
\nRaising awareness about RSV is a shared responsibility. By prioritizing prevention through everyday protective measures and embracing the life-saving potential of vaccination, we can reduce the toll of a highly contagious virus that continues to affect families, communities, and healthcare systems. Protecting lives begins with knowledge, vigilance, and trust in science.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "The cooler temperatures the country has been experiencing in recent months are a welcome relief from the usual sweltering heat of the dry season. Yet this seasonal respite carries a hidden health risk. Lower temperatures often coincide with a rise in influenza-like illness (ILI), including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a highly contagious respiratory infection. It imposes a heavy socioeconomic burden through healthcare costs, productivity losses, and added strain on an already stretched health system.\nRSV causes flu-like symptoms such as coughing and sneezing, runny nose and congestion, fever, sore throat, headache, and fatigue. In more severe cases, wheezing and difficulty breathing may develop. The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for RSV, and mild infections are managed through supportive care, including hydration and over-the-counter medications to relieve fever and nasal congestion. Serious cases, particularly among infants and older adults, often require hospitalization.\nGlobally, RSV is one of the most common causes of acute lower respiratory infection in children and a major cause of severe respiratory disease among older persons. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly all children are infected with RSV by their second birthday. Each year, RSV accounts for more than 3.6 million hospitalizations and approximately 100,000 deaths among children under five years old. Alarmingly, 97% of RSV-related deaths in children occur in low- and middle-income countries, where access to timely and adequate supportive care remains limited.\nRSV infection in early life can also have lasting consequences. The WHO warns that lower respiratory tract infection due to RSV may lead to repeated hospitalizations during infancy, recurrent wheezing or asthma, and impaired lung health later in life. Among older adults, RSV can worsen chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart failure, often resulting in serious complications.\nLocal surveillance data reinforce the urgency of the problem. Findings from the RSV Surveillance Pilot Project of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) from May 2022 to April 2024 show that RSV transmission in the Philippines occurs year-round, with cases peaking from May to December. RSV accounted for a higher disease burden than influenza and SARS-CoV-2 among children aged two years and below, with infants under six months facing the highest risk of severe infection. Based on data from Jan. 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025, the country\u2019s annual RSV positivity rate stood at 20%, reaching as high as 66.7% during peak season.\nRSV positivity rate refers to the proportion of tested individuals who receive a positive result. A higher positivity rate indicates wider virus circulation in the community. Tracking this measure is an important public health tool. It helps anticipate healthcare demand, informs hospital preparedness, and guides preventive strategies such as vaccination campaigns and public advisories.\nLaunched in 2021 and led by the Philippine National Influenza Center, the RSV Surveillance Pilot Project aims to integrate RSV monitoring into the country\u2019s broader National Respiratory Surveillance System. This initiative provides evidence to support timely public health action and strengthen preparedness.\nIn the absence of a definitive treatment, prevention remains our most effective defense. Basic measures still matter: staying home when sick, wearing a mask in public spaces, covering one\u2019s mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, practicing frequent handwashing, and regularly disinfecting commonly touched surfaces.\nImmunization is another vital pillar of RSV prevention. Maternal immunization is recommended as an effective way to protect infants, with health experts advising a single dose of RSV vaccine for pregnant women from 28 weeks of gestation, ideally administered at least two weeks before delivery to allow optimal antibody transfer to the newborn. For older adults, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends RSV vaccination for everyone aged 75 and above, as well as for adults aged 50 to 74 who are at increased risk of severe disease, including those with chronic cardiopulmonary conditions, diabetes, or other underlying illnesses. Speak with your doctor for a more detailed discussion.\nRaising awareness about RSV is a shared responsibility. By prioritizing prevention through everyday protective measures and embracing the life-saving potential of vaccination, we can reduce the toll of a highly contagious virus that continues to affect families, communities, and healthcare systems. Protecting lives begins with knowledge, vigilance, and trust in science.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-02-09T00:01:37+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-08T18:17:57+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/woman-with-cold-having-flu-staying-bed-sneezing-napkin-runny-nose-influenza-symptoms.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=727714", "url": "/opinion/2026/02/02/727714/hypertension-why-prevention-and-early-treatment-save-lives/", "title": "Hypertension: Why prevention and early treatment save lives", "content_html": "Hypertension may be silent, but its consequences are not. Early detection and timely treatment can prevent heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.
\nAs the country observes Philippine Heart Month, it bears repeating that high blood pressure or hypertension is the single most important risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death among Filipinos. Often called the \u201csilent killer,\u201d hypertension typically has no symptoms, yet its consequences can be devastating. Left undetected and uncontrolled, it can lead to heart failure, kidney disease or kidney failure, vision loss, and erectile dysfunction, among other complications.
\nHypertension develops due to a mix of non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors. These include family history and advancing age, as well as physical inactivity, an unhealthy diet, overweight or obesity, smoking, and chronic kidney disease. Because many of these risks are preventable or manageable, hypertension is not just a medical condition, it is a public health issue that demands early action.
\nThe scale of the problem is sobering. The most recent Philippine Heart Association survey, PRESYON-4, found that nearly four in 10 Filipinos (37%) have hypertension. Alarmingly, only about half (52%) were aware they had the condition. Among those diagnosed, 22% were smokers, 37% were overweight, and 5% had diabetes. Even more concerning, six out of 10 hypertensive respondents who were already taking maintenance medications still had uncontrolled blood pressure, placing them at continued risk for heart attack and stroke.
\nHypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure on two or more separate occasions in a clinic or hospital setting. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. The 2020 Philippine Clinical Practice Guidelines of the Philippine Society of Hypertension define hypertension as a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg or higher, while readings between 120-139/80-99 were previously classified as \u201cprehypertension\u201d or borderline hypertension.
\nGlobally, however, there has been a shift toward earlier intervention. In August 2025, the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology released updated guidelines emphasizing prevention and earlier treatment to reduce long-term cardiovascular risk. Under these guidelines, blood pressure of 120-129/less than 80 is considered \u201celevated,\u201d while readings of 130-139/80-89 are already classified as stage 1 hypertension. A blood pressure of 140/90 or higher is stage 2 hypertension, and readings of 180/120 or greater constitute a hypertensive crisis requiring urgent medical care.
\nThis shift underscores a critical message: waiting for blood pressure to reach very high levels before acting is no longer acceptable. Early lifestyle changes, and medication when appropriate, can prevent irreversible damage to the heart, brain, and kidneys.
\nAt the core of hypertension prevention and control is a heart-healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting sodium and unhealthy fats are foundational steps. Maintaining a healthy weight is particularly important; for individuals who are overweight or obese, even a 5% reduction in body weight can significantly lower blood pressure. Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, getting seven to nine hours of quality sleep, and managing stress also play an important role.
\nFor many patients, dietary changes are especially powerful. The Philippine Society of Hypertension recommends the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) meal plan for individuals without kidney insufficiency. The DASH diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, fish, whole grains, fiber, potassium, and other essential minerals, while limiting red and processed meat, sugar-sweetened foods and beverages, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.
\nLifestyle measures are the first-line treatment for hypertension and work hand in hand with medications. Most people with hypertension will require maintenance medicines for life to keep their blood pressure under control and prevent complications. It is essential that patients take their medications exactly as prescribed and never stop treatment without consulting their doctor, even when they feel well.
\nHome blood pressure monitoring is another important tool. The American Heart Association recommends that all individuals diagnosed with hypertension use an automatic, cuff-style, upper-arm blood pressure monitor at home. Accurate home readings help doctors determine whether treatments are working and guide medication adjustments. Patients should ensure the correct cuff size, avoid smoking, caffeine, or exercise 30 minutes before measurement, rest quietly for at least five minutes, and take readings at the same time each day. Recording and sharing these readings during medical appointments strengthens shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers.
\nHypertension remains a major public health challenge in the Philippines but it is also one of the most preventable. The research-based pharmaceutical industry recognizes its central role in cardiovascular disease and is committed to expanding access to diagnostics, effective treatments, and patient education. Through the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, member companies are supporting awareness campaigns, strengthening hypertension management, and working with stakeholders to reduce the country\u2019s cardiovascular disease burden.
\nPreventing and treating hypertension early saves lives. It is an investment in healthier families, a more productive workforce, and a stronger healthcare system, one blood pressure reading at a time.
\n\n
Teodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.
\n", "content_text": "Hypertension may be silent, but its consequences are not. Early detection and timely treatment can prevent heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.\nAs the country observes Philippine Heart Month, it bears repeating that high blood pressure or hypertension is the single most important risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death among Filipinos. Often called the \u201csilent killer,\u201d hypertension typically has no symptoms, yet its consequences can be devastating. Left undetected and uncontrolled, it can lead to heart failure, kidney disease or kidney failure, vision loss, and erectile dysfunction, among other complications.\nHypertension develops due to a mix of non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors. These include family history and advancing age, as well as physical inactivity, an unhealthy diet, overweight or obesity, smoking, and chronic kidney disease. Because many of these risks are preventable or manageable, hypertension is not just a medical condition, it is a public health issue that demands early action.\nThe scale of the problem is sobering. The most recent Philippine Heart Association survey, PRESYON-4, found that nearly four in 10 Filipinos (37%) have hypertension. Alarmingly, only about half (52%) were aware they had the condition. Among those diagnosed, 22% were smokers, 37% were overweight, and 5% had diabetes. Even more concerning, six out of 10 hypertensive respondents who were already taking maintenance medications still had uncontrolled blood pressure, placing them at continued risk for heart attack and stroke.\nHypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure on two or more separate occasions in a clinic or hospital setting. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. The 2020 Philippine Clinical Practice Guidelines of the Philippine Society of Hypertension define hypertension as a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg or higher, while readings between 120-139/80-99 were previously classified as \u201cprehypertension\u201d or borderline hypertension.\nGlobally, however, there has been a shift toward earlier intervention. In August 2025, the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology released updated guidelines emphasizing prevention and earlier treatment to reduce long-term cardiovascular risk. Under these guidelines, blood pressure of 120-129/less than 80 is considered \u201celevated,\u201d while readings of 130-139/80-89 are already classified as stage 1 hypertension. A blood pressure of 140/90 or higher is stage 2 hypertension, and readings of 180/120 or greater constitute a hypertensive crisis requiring urgent medical care.\nThis shift underscores a critical message: waiting for blood pressure to reach very high levels before acting is no longer acceptable. Early lifestyle changes, and medication when appropriate, can prevent irreversible damage to the heart, brain, and kidneys.\nAt the core of hypertension prevention and control is a heart-healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting sodium and unhealthy fats are foundational steps. Maintaining a healthy weight is particularly important; for individuals who are overweight or obese, even a 5% reduction in body weight can significantly lower blood pressure. Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, getting seven to nine hours of quality sleep, and managing stress also play an important role.\nFor many patients, dietary changes are especially powerful. The Philippine Society of Hypertension recommends the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) meal plan for individuals without kidney insufficiency. The DASH diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, fish, whole grains, fiber, potassium, and other essential minerals, while limiting red and processed meat, sugar-sweetened foods and beverages, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.\nLifestyle measures are the first-line treatment for hypertension and work hand in hand with medications. Most people with hypertension will require maintenance medicines for life to keep their blood pressure under control and prevent complications. It is essential that patients take their medications exactly as prescribed and never stop treatment without consulting their doctor, even when they feel well.\nHome blood pressure monitoring is another important tool. The American Heart Association recommends that all individuals diagnosed with hypertension use an automatic, cuff-style, upper-arm blood pressure monitor at home. Accurate home readings help doctors determine whether treatments are working and guide medication adjustments. Patients should ensure the correct cuff size, avoid smoking, caffeine, or exercise 30 minutes before measurement, rest quietly for at least five minutes, and take readings at the same time each day. Recording and sharing these readings during medical appointments strengthens shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers.\nHypertension remains a major public health challenge in the Philippines but it is also one of the most preventable. The research-based pharmaceutical industry recognizes its central role in cardiovascular disease and is committed to expanding access to diagnostics, effective treatments, and patient education. Through the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, member companies are supporting awareness campaigns, strengthening hypertension management, and working with stakeholders to reduce the country\u2019s cardiovascular disease burden.\nPreventing and treating hypertension early saves lives. It is an investment in healthier families, a more productive workforce, and a stronger healthcare system, one blood pressure reading at a time.\n \nTeodoro B. Padilla is the executive director of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines, which represents the biopharmaceutical medicines and vaccines industry in the country. Its members are at the forefront of developing, investing and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics for Filipinos to live healthier and more productive lives.", "date_published": "2026-02-02T00:01:23+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-01T18:18:37+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/top-view-tensiometer-checking-blood-pressure.jpg", "tags": [ "Medicine cabinet", "Teodoro B. Padilla", "Health", "Opinion" ] }, { "id": "/?p=727025", "url": "/health/2026/01/28/727025/axa-philippines-launches-digital-mental-health-self-check-tool/", "title": "AXA Philippines launches digital mental health self-check tool", "content_html": "AXA\u00a0Philippines Life and General Insurance Co. launched a digital mental health tool that can assess emotional well-being and provide recommended actions, helping address Filipinos\u2019 lack of awareness on how to deal with mental health challenges.
\nA recent AXA Mind Health study shows that although 65% of Filipinos are aware of what mental health issues look like, only about a third of those surveyed said they know what to do when they themselves or others face these challenges.
\nPaul Ferrer Cheng, head of research and development at Mind You, AXA Philippines\u2019 partner in mental health, said the disconnection between awareness and action poses real risks, as the lack of response to existing mental health conditions may result in long-term emotional and economic tolls.
\n\u201cWe need to ensure that Filipinos not only recognize mental health issues, but also know how to respond,\u201d he said in a statement released Tuesday.
\n\u201cWithout that, we risk letting early warning signs escalate into long-term distress.\u201d
\nAXA also found that people who are well informed about mental health and how to address it are more likely to report positive well-being and experience better outcomes than those who do not.
\nThe platform, called the \u201cMind Health Self-check,\u201d allows users to better understand their emotional well-being for improved mental health management.
\nAccessible through a\u00a0website, the tool evaluates three critical areas of a person\u2019s life: current state of mind, skills and beliefs, and lifestyle.
\nUsers answer a set of detailed questions, after which a Mind Health Index Score is generated using AXA\u2019s proprietary methodology. The score ranges from 0 to 100, with users classified into four categories.
\nA score of more than 68 indicates flourishing, the highest level, reflecting excellent emotional, social, and physiological well-being. Scores from 57 to 68 indicate getting by, or a stable state, while scores between 43 and 57 reflect languishing, characterized by low motivation and well-being. Scores below 43 indicate struggling, marked by difficulty and distress in many areas, often linked to emotional and psychosocial impairment.
\nThe tool then provides self-help guides and tips on how to improve well-being, as well as an option that directs users to AXA\u2019s mental health services.
\nAXA said it offers free mental health counseling, while its largest superior critical illness plan, Health Max Elite, provides coverage for select mental health conditions.
\nAXA Philippines is a joint venture between the France-based AXA Group and listed conglomerate GT Capital Holdings, Inc. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva
\n", "content_text": "AXA\u00a0Philippines Life and General Insurance Co. launched a digital mental health tool that can assess emotional well-being and provide recommended actions, helping address Filipinos\u2019 lack of awareness on how to deal with mental health challenges.\nA recent AXA Mind Health study shows that although 65% of Filipinos are aware of what mental health issues look like, only about a third of those surveyed said they know what to do when they themselves or others face these challenges.\nPaul Ferrer Cheng, head of research and development at Mind You, AXA Philippines\u2019 partner in mental health, said the disconnection between awareness and action poses real risks, as the lack of response to existing mental health conditions may result in long-term emotional and economic tolls.\n\u201cWe need to ensure that Filipinos not only recognize mental health issues, but also know how to respond,\u201d he said in a statement released Tuesday.\n\u201cWithout that, we risk letting early warning signs escalate into long-term distress.\u201d\nAXA also found that people who are well informed about mental health and how to address it are more likely to report positive well-being and experience better outcomes than those who do not.\nThe platform, called the \u201cMind Health Self-check,\u201d allows users to better understand their emotional well-being for improved mental health management.\nAccessible through a\u00a0website, the tool evaluates three critical areas of a person\u2019s life: current state of mind, skills and beliefs, and lifestyle.\nUsers answer a set of detailed questions, after which a Mind Health Index Score is generated using AXA\u2019s proprietary methodology. The score ranges from 0 to 100, with users classified into four categories.\nA score of more than 68 indicates flourishing, the highest level, reflecting excellent emotional, social, and physiological well-being. Scores from 57 to 68 indicate getting by, or a stable state, while scores between 43 and 57 reflect languishing, characterized by low motivation and well-being. Scores below 43 indicate struggling, marked by difficulty and distress in many areas, often linked to emotional and psychosocial impairment.\nThe tool then provides self-help guides and tips on how to improve well-being, as well as an option that directs users to AXA\u2019s mental health services.\nAXA said it offers free mental health counseling, while its largest superior critical illness plan, Health Max Elite, provides coverage for select mental health conditions.\nAXA Philippines is a joint venture between the France-based AXA Group and listed conglomerate GT Capital Holdings, Inc. \u2014 Edg Adrian A. Eva", "date_published": "2026-01-28T17:52:31+08:00", "date_modified": "2026-01-28T17:52:31+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "大象传媒", "url": "/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fc38d2668fdee8f1e2b22df5e72ae6f4ad265ab7814de4aa60060edd377a70ce?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/AXA-PHILIPPINES.jpg", "tags": [ "Edg Adrian A. Eva", "Health" ] } ] }