Japan approves P11.54 billion for Philippines health care

MANILA, Philippines —  Japan is extending a loan of $187.92 million (P11.54 billion) to address key reforms in the universal health care (UHC) program, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.

DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya on Tuesday signed diplomatic notes pertaining to the Japanese government’s loan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, for the Build Universal Health Care Program (subprogram 3).

The Japanese loan for the BUHC3 is targeted to address key reforms on sustainable financing and strategic purchasing, integrated delivery of quality health services and information management and performance accountability.

The Japanese embassy in Manila said “this program will provide financial support to the Philippines to improve and formulate policies related to achieving universal health care and to mitigate the impact on the health sector caused by the escalating tensions in the Middle East.”

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives on Tuesday adopted Resolution 1274 commemorating the 70th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations after World War II between the Philippines and Japan.

The House also adopted a resolution commending outgoing South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa for strengthening relations between Manila and Seoul.

In another development, the Philippines is looking to expand cooperation with Lesotho, the Dominican Republic, Gambia and Gabon in key sectors, including trade and tourism.

President Marcos welcomed the countries’ non-resident ambassadors on Tuesday at Malacañang. – Christine Boton,