Philippines, France vow cooperation vs. HIV, dengue, other diseases

Department of Health (DOH) officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire on Friday discussed with French Ambassador to the Philippines Michele Boccoz the renewed health cooperation and partnership for public health between both nations.

The two officials also discussed strengthening COVID-19 response through vaccination and Universal Health Care through improved access.

They also talked about strengthening the delivery of primary care services, as well as addressing diseases like the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), tuberculosis, dengue, and malaria.

Vergeire said the Health department cherished the “strong” relationship with its international partners and stakeholders.

“Through our continuous investment and collaborations, and through the One Health Approach and improved collaboration with key partners such as the government of France, we are optimistic that we will uphold our commitments to our targets and aspirations for Philippine Health,” she said in a statement.

“The discussion we had with them today contributes to our strategic steps in forming key initiatives and actions that help solve health problems -- and by addressing these, we create improved health outcomes and healthy settings for every Juan and Juana,” she added.—Richa Noriega/LDF, GMA Integrated News