National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Advocates Strategic National Investments for Post-Pandemic Health Sector Resilience

In a pivotal meeting between the Philippine government and the World Bank on Health Sector Rebuilding, held on September 5, 2023, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) emphasized the imperative of strategic national investments to fortify human and social development, paving the way for a resilient post-pandemic health sector.

Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa presented a comprehensive multi-component project proposal during the high-level meeting, aiming to achieve the outlined objectives over the medium term.

To contextualize the government’s current priorities and strategies in reconstructing a robust post-COVID-19 health sector, NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan shared insights into the lessons learned since the pandemic’s onset.

“In the formulation of the PDP [Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028], we took into account the lessons learned from the past administration (especially from the experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic), global and regional trends over the medium term, our national and the global agenda for development, and our long-term vision embodied by the AmBisyon Natin 2040,” stated Balisacan.

Secretary Balisacan underscored that the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the vulnerability of critical sectors in the economy, with health standing out prominently. Therefore, the government consistently assessed the efficacy of various measures throughout the global crisis.

Lessons Learned:

1. Investments in Early Warning Systems: Recognizing the need for swift action during health crises and emergencies, Secretary Balisacan highlighted the imperative of investing in robust early warning systems.
2. Whole-of-Government Approach: Emphasizing a holistic approach, the government learned the importance of a whole-of-government strategy in rebuilding the health sector.
3. Collaboration and Partnerships: Acknowledging the limits of government resources, Secretary Balisacan stressed the necessity of collaboration with local government units and partnerships with the private sector and civil society.

Philippine Development Plan (PDP) Strategies:

1. Holistic Health Improvement: The PDP strategy framework focuses on a holistic approach to enhance health outcomes, reduce health inequities, and achieve universal healthcare.
2. Collaborative Efforts: Balisacan highlighted the collaborative effort of all government agencies and instrumentalities, emphasizing the contribution of non-health government agencies and non-government health systems stakeholders.
3. Priority Bills: Aligning with the strategies contained in the PDP, Secretary Balisacan cited the evolving list of priority bills in the 19th Congress aimed at boosting health in the country. These include bills on the Elimination of Trans Fatty Acids, Establishment of a Medical Reserve Corps, Establishment of Regional Specialty Centers, creation of the National Disease Prevention Management Authority, and the creation of the Virology Institute of the Philippines.

The NEDA underscores its commitment to a resilient and robust post-pandemic health sector, focusing on strategic national investments and collaborative efforts to ensure a healthier and more resilient future for the Filipino people.