Pictured left to right: Dr Rui Paulo de Jesus, WHO Representative, Philippines; Dr Rory Nefdt, Senior Advisor Health, UNICEF; Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, Department of Health, Philippines; and Linda Merieau, Partnerships and Resource Mobilization, Health4Life Fund
Department of Health (DOH) Philippines Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa led efforts to highlight the United Nations (UN) Health4Life Fund (H4LF) at the 75th Regional Committee Meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region. As a strategic partner, the Philippines is committed to advancing the aims and ambitions of the H4LF, a global south-centered approach to drive the progress of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health agenda.
In collaboration with its partners, H4LF intends to catalyze sustainable country-led action on NCDs and mental health through grant-making and by fostering south-south learning through a platform that would provide support for the sharing of knowledge, tools, technical assistance and lessons from countries to other countries. UNICEF, as a core UN partner, joined the Regional Committee meeting alongside a representative of the H4LF Secretariat to engage with Member States on the pressing need for greater solidarity and collective action to address the escalating NCD and mental health crisis in low- and middle-income countries.
On the opening day, Health Secretary Herbosa spoke about his conviction that emerging economies can substantially contribute to regional health goals. He specifically noted that the Philippines continues to engage in strong multilateral and collective action, highlighting their leadership in H4LF among other initiatives.
“The UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund for Member States Catalyzing Country Action for NCDs and Mental Health, otherwise known as the Health4Life Fund, presents an unprecedented opportunity for us to not only scale up our investments in these areas but to do so in a way that promotes equity, efficiency, and global solidarity,” the Secretary emphasized in a special briefing session organized by the Philippines.
WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, likened the region’s shared vision of advancing “health for all’ to the act of weaving a mat. “Weaving is a communal activity, never done in isolation. We must come together.” explained the Regional Director. “Health is a collective effort, especially when faced with such significant challenges,” he added.
Indeed, progress on NCDs and mental health will be realized through effective cross-sectoral partnerships and weaving the different strands of action. These efforts are essential to protect children from risk factors, to address social and commercial determinants of health, and to implement evidence-based health interventions. Success requires a united approach—no single organization can achieve this on their own.
Reflecting on the impressive achievements of the Western Pacific region, the Regional Director quoted Hellen Keller: “Alone we can do so little, but together we can do so much.” This is the essence of the UN Health4Life Fund.