The Department of Health (DOH) received Emergency Operation Center (EOC) Information and Communications Technology (ICT) equipment valued at P4.8 million from the European Union (EU) and the World Health Organization (WHO) Philippines.
In a statement on Friday, Jan. 26, DOH said that this donation aims to enhance the agency's ability to respond efficiently to public health emergencies, ensuring the continuity of health services during crises.
"This aligns with one of our 8-Point Action Agenda - Teknolohiya para sa mabilis na serbisyong pangkalusugan. This collaboration is more than just a technological upgrade; it will let DOH respond swiftly, organize effectively, and protect the health and well-being of every Filipino, especially the most vulnerable during public health emergencies and disasters," DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.
"The DOH will provide the best for the poorest, dahil sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay Mahalaga," he added.
DOH noted that the EOCs designated for equipment are the East Avenue Medical Center and the Centers for Health Development in Central Luzon, Central Visayas, and Davao, strategically positioned for sub-national emergency operations.
“The European Union has been a steadfast ally of the Philippines, both in tackling disasters with humanitarian aid and by supporting national and local authorities’ work on disaster preparedness for many years now. In particular, since 2020, health emergencies have become a very real threat. The EU is therefore proud to be supporting the Department of Health to secure its communication and coordination capabilities during major crises. This will protect lives," said Christoph Wagner, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to the Philippines.
The DOH stated that the donation is part of the 20 million euro (P1.232 billion) South East Asia Health Pandemic Response and Preparedness program, a collaboration with WHO and the ASEAN Secretariat.
“We hope that this donation will help achieve the recommended minimum operational requirements for ensuring uninterrupted health service delivery in emergencies and disasters,” said WHO Representative to the Philippines, Dr. Rui Paulo de Jesus.
The turnover ceremony, attended by EU and WHO representatives, DOH officials, and key stakeholders, signifies a significant step toward bolstering the country's health infrastructure and response capabilities.