Senator Bong Go has urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to expand its coverage for tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment, stressing the need for greater government support amid a decline in foreign aid for health programs.
His call comes after the suspension of certain international health assistance. On January 24, the US State Department issued a “stop-work” order on all foreign aid, including those under the United States for International Development (USAID), following President Donald Trump’s directive to review funding to align with his foreign policy.
As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Go highlighted the importance of enhancing the country’s self-reliance and increasing investments in healthcare. He stressed that the government should reduce its dependence on foreign aid and boost local healthcare funding, drawing lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic.
During a Senate committee hearing on February 12, Go asked the Department of Health (DOH) about the effects of reduced international support on the country’s initiatives to fight HIV and TB. He also expressed concern over the rising number of HIV cases, noting that new monthly diagnoses have been increasing since 2021.
Go called on PhilHealth to expand its assistance to affected individuals, emphasizing the need for adequate support.
In response, DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo assured that the government remains the primary financier of HIV and TB programs. While he acknowledged that international support from organizations like the Global Fund and USAID is valuable, he clarified that most funding comes from local sources.
