The US has committed more than P639 million in fresh health assistance to the Philippines, deepening a multibillion-peso partnership aimed at strengthening the country’s response to infectious diseases and improving health system resilience.
The funding was announced following the signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on April 7 between the US Embassy in the Philippines and the Department of Health. The agreement forms part of activities marking the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Manila and Washington.
Under the package, Washington will provide P580 million (USD10 million) worth of tuberculosis (TB) medicines and 12 ultraportable TB X-ray machines valued at P45.4 million (USD783,000). A further P14.5 million (USD250,000) grant will be extended to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center to expand testing and treatment services for Filipino veterans.
US Chargé d’Affaires Y. Robert Ewing said the assistance supports ongoing efforts to improve disease detection, diagnostics, and treatment, particularly for tuberculosis and HIV, which remain major public health concerns.
The latest commitment builds on P13.8 billion (USD250 million) in US foreign health assistance announced in September 2025 under the America First Global Health Strategy. The earlier funding supports programs focused on TB control, maternal health, and preparedness for emerging health threats.
Both governments are also advancing plans for a five-year Strategic Objective Agreement to expand co-funding mechanisms, boost collaboration in health technology and innovation, and help the Philippines move toward greater self-reliance in managing public health programs.
Officials said the renewed cooperation underscores a shared commitment to long-term health security as both countries confront evolving disease risks.
