03 June 2015 - Following the 68th World Health Assembly held in Geneva from May 18 to 26, the Philippines assumed its role as a new member of the Executive Board of the World Health Organization (WHO) for a three-year term until 2018.
Philippine Health Secretary Janette Garin, who led the Philippine Delegation to the 68th World Health Assembly, that also saw the renewal of the mandate of the Commission on Audit as External Auditor of the WHO, represents the Philippines in the Executive Board.
The Executive Board held its first meeting from May 27 to 28 and immediately submitted recommendations on the strategic budget space allocation of the WHO, which was expected to impact on its ability to deliver global services.
The WHO had faced several challenges in the past years, including for instance the outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease that underscored the crucial role of strong, well-functioning health systems in responding to emergencies.
The importance of building resilient health systems – incidentally the theme of the 68th World Health Assembly – was emphasized by Secretary Garin in her statement delivered on May 19, saying that “a health system with strong fundamentals will be able to withstand any shock that comes its way.”
A strong health system should be able to absorb the impact of extraordinary events such as pandemics, disasters, economic downturns and even armed conflict. It is also critical in the aftermath of health emergencies, particularly in rebuilding efforts and in sustaining medical response.
It was in this context that Secretary Garin discussed the Philippine experience in bouncing back from the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda/Haiyan in 2013, which in turn helped it respond better to Typhoon Hagupit in 2014. She also pointed out the inherent link between health and climate change, especially for vulnerable countries like the Philippines.
"The Philippine experience during Typhoon Haiyan highlighted the capacity of global climate change to wipe out health sector gains and inflict catastrophic losses of life, limb, and properties. Its impact on economies is beyond words,” she said.
“Noting that the Philippines is the current chair of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, I therefore call on this Assembly to collectively support measures within and even outside the health sector that will address the effects of global climate change," she stressed.
Ambassador Cecilia Rebong, Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Other International Organizations, stated that it was an honor for the Philippines to become a member of the Executive Board.
“The Philippines will be guided by the decisions of our global leaders in the World Health Assembly, as well as the interests of the Philippines in health and other sectors, in fulfilling our duty as a member of the Executive Board,” she added. END