Today, April 7, 2025, marks the 77th observance by the United Nations of World Health Day. Focusing on maternal and newborn health, this year’s celebration is themed "Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures," beaming the spotlight on the urgency of ending preventable deaths.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging governments and the health community to take action in promoting four vital goals: first, improve survival rates for women and babies; second, promote healthy pregnancies, births, and postnatal health; third, advocate for laws and policies that safeguard women's health and rights; and fourth, ensure access to vital family planning services.

Indeed, maternal and newborn health are vital keys for attaining lifelong health, building stronger communities, and securing a better future for all.

Ensuring that every Filipino mother experiences a safe pregnancy and childbirth, and that every newborn is given the best possible start in life, is not just a public health concern—it is a national priority that directly impacts the country’s future. Yet, despite progress in maternal and child health, the Philippines continues to face significant challenges that threaten its ability to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other overarching development objectives.

While the country has seen improvements in maternal and newborn health indicators over the years, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) remains a critical concern. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the country recorded 189 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2022—far from the SDG target of reducing MMR to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. Neonatal mortality also remains high, with preventable causes such as premature birth, birth asphyxia, and infections accounting for a significant proportion of newborn deaths.

Several key challenges hinder progress in maternal and newborn health.

First is the persistent disparity in healthcare access, particularly for women in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Many rural communities lack adequately equipped health facilities and skilled birth attendants, forcing expectant mothers to either endure unsafe home deliveries or undertake arduous journeys to access care. Second, financial constraints prevent many families from seeking timely maternal and newborn health services, even with the expansion of PhilHealth coverage. Third, adolescent pregnancies continue to rise, exacerbating maternal health risks and perpetuating cycles of poverty. Additionally, gaps in family planning services and health education contribute to unplanned pregnancies and increased maternal health risks.

The Philippines can learn valuable lessons from other Asian countries in improving maternal and newborn health. Thailand, for instance, has successfully reduced maternal and neonatal mortality through a universal health coverage system that ensures financial protection for expectant mothers. Vietnam has strengthened its community health network, providing maternal health services even in the most remote areas. Bangladesh, despite economic constraints, has dramatically reduced neonatal mortality by promoting skilled birth attendance and kangaroo mother care for premature infants.

A multi-faceted approach is imperative. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, and ensuring that every barangay has access to skilled midwives and birth attendants should be a top priority. Expanding financial protection for maternal healthcare, scaling up adolescent reproductive health education, and intensifying efforts to prevent teenage pregnancies must also be central to the country’s strategy. Lastly, a strong political commitment to maternal and newborn health, backed by sustained investment, will be crucial in achieving long-term improvements.