Health leadership, governance program for mayors launched

MANILA, Philippines - A newly launched public-private partnership is set to enhance the skills of local government executives nationwide in providing health benefits for the poor.

The joint undertaking between the Department of Health (DOH) and the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) will cover 15 regions, 54 provinces, and 609 cities and municipalities all over the country.

The 609 local government units (LGUs) were identified as priority areas by the National Anti-Poverty Commission.

The three-year program, which will end in 2016, is expected to cost P1 billion. The ZFF and its partners, United Nations Development Fund and MSD (Merck Sharp and Dohme), will contribute P125 million.

The foundation is currently coordinating with organizations such as the UNICEF, USAID and AusAID to get additional funding for the program.

“The department recognizes the importance of good governance and leadership to achieve good health outcomes in the (LGUs). By bringing this intervention to the 609 LGUs, we are optimistic that the country will achieve its health-related Millennium Development Goals targets while at the same time develop empowered leaders to improve not only the health outcomes but also the overall quality of life of all Filipinos,” Health Secretary Enrique Ona said.

ZFF chairman Roberto Romulo said since piloting the strategy in 2009, the maternal and infant mortality ratios in the foundation’s 97 municipalities decreased dramatically.