Press Release | 09 August 2024
The Department of Health (DOH) is one with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the celebration of its 57th founding anniversary on August 8, 2024, by highlighting its continued support, especially in the implementation of ASEAN initiatives spearheaded by the Philippines. These initiatives include ending all forms of malnutrition and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through the One Health Approach.
This event plays a crucial role in the country’s celebration of international cooperation as it marks the establishment of a constitution of nations with a vast range of similarities in culture and domestic conditions. The ASEAN ventured into collaborative efforts to promote economic growth, peace, security, cultural development, and regional integration while still upholding individual state sovereignty.
“As we continue to strive towards enhancing the dynamics of health system mechanisms and policy formulation to improve the health and well-being of our primary stakeholders, the Philippine Department of Health seeks the support of all ASEAN Member States as it continues advocating for the eradication of all forms of malnutrition and combating antimicrobial resistance through the One Health Approach. Finally, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all the ASEAN Health Ministers for their unwavering tenacity in propelling ASEAN initiatives in pursuit of accelerating ASEAN health sector goals, particularly in expanding Universal Health Care – leading the country to a Bagong Pilipinas kung saan Bawat Buhay Mahalaga,” expressed Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.
Furthermore, Secretary Herbosa reaffirms the Philippines’ commitment to sustaining meaningful engagements and dialogue with all ASEAN Member States and ASEAN partners to ensure the achievement of ASEAN health sector goals. As the member countries face consistent threats from disasters and public health emergencies, the collective efforts of all ASEAN Member States continue to solidify and further strengthen the preparedness and response capacities of the Member States, towards a resilient regional health system.
The Philippines is among the founding members of the ASEAN along with Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. The ASEAN was officially inaugurated on August 8, 1967 through the signing of the ASEAN Declaration in Bangkok, Thailand. Presently, the ASEAN is composed of 10 Member States, with Timor Leste well underway to becoming the 11th member state.
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