The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and the Department of Health signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on health cooperation as both countries mark the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.
The agreement was signed on April 7 by Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Y. Robert Ewing and Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, strengthening bilateral efforts under the America First Global Health Strategy.
The JDI outlines a framework to help the Philippines achieve greater autonomy and self-reliance in its health systems while enhancing its capacity to detect and respond to global health threats, including HIV and tuberculosis (TB).
As part of the initiative, the United States pledged significant support to the country’s TB response, including ₱580 million worth of TB medicines, 12 ultraportable X-ray machines valued at ₱45.4 million, and a ₱14.5 million grant to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center to expand testing and treatment for veterans.
The assistance builds on previous U.S. support amounting to ₱13.8 billion announced in 2025, aimed at strengthening disease prevention, maternal health, and pandemic preparedness.
Ewing said the partnership underscores continued collaboration with Philippine health authorities to advance innovative and lifesaving programs.
Both countries are also set to negotiate a five-year Strategic Objective Agreement to further enhance health system resilience, expand co-funding efforts, and promote collaboration in health technology and innovation.|
