The Australian Government has supported the opening of a new sexual and reproductive health clinic in Davao City, strengthening access to essential healthcare services in Mindanao.
The clinic, operated by the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP), was officially launched by Australia’s Deputy Head of Mission to the Philippines, Nicholas Kay, at the WH Vertex Building in Davao City.
Australia funded the clinic’s refurbishment and relocation to help it meet Department of Health and PhilHealth accreditation standards, ensuring the long-term delivery of reproductive health services.
The project is part of Australia’s broader development assistance to the Philippines, worth more than P4 billion annually. It is implemented under RESPOND, an Australian regional program aimed at expanding access to quality sexual and reproductive healthcare for women, girls, and vulnerable communities across the Indo-Pacific.
Australian officials said the initiative will help reduce maternal and newborn deaths, prevent the spread of HIV, and improve healthcare access for underserved groups.
In the Philippines, RESPOND will provide P232 million over four years. Since August 2024, the program has already delivered more than one million reproductive health services, screened over 17,000 people for HIV, educated nearly 60,000 people on sexuality and reproductive health, and assisted more than 40,000 survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
The launch also forms part of activities celebrating the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Philippines, highlighting ongoing cooperation on healthcare, development, and community partnerships.
