17th Philippine Migrant Health Network (PMHN) Meeting

30 August 2024 – “No matter how heavy the challenges in migration health, they become LIGHTER when addressed with a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach,” emphasized Director Joel Buenaventura during the 17th PMHN Meeting held on 15 August 2024. Organized by the Department of Health’s Migrant Health Unit (MHU) and supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the meeting brought together over 80 migration advocates from various government and non-government agencies, academia, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international organizations.

Director Buenaventura highlighted that the Migrant Health Program must be Localized, Innovative, Gender-Sensitive, Health-In-All-Sectors, and driven by Targeted, Evidence-Based, and Rights-Based Policies in Migration.

The meeting provided updates on the status of the 2024 PMHN Annual Work Plan, outlined next steps, and explored ways forward in its implementation. Participants also reviewed recent developments and shared updates on various sectoral efforts and initiatives related to migration and health. Key topics included: (1)Updates from the DOH – MHU; (2) Updates from PhilHealth; (3) Establishment of OFW Wards at DOH Level 3 Hospitals; (4) Mental Health Services for Migrants by the National Center for Mental Health; (5) Updates from the OFW Hospital; (6) Tuberculosis and Labor Migration in the Philippines; (7) Registry of Barangay Inhabitants and Migrants; and (8) Health Status of Refugees, Stateless Persons, and Asylum Seekers. Ms. Carmelita Nuqui, PMHN Vice-Chairperson, concluded the meeting by acknowledging the decade-long commitment of Director Buenaventura, thanking PhilHealth for hosting the event, and commending the dedication of PMHN members. She praised the active participation of attendees, which contributed to the success of the meeting.