The Department of Health (DOH) is calling for a significant increase in funding for tuberculosis (TB) programs after data showed that the Philippines is among the top three countries globally for TB infections.
To tackle the challenge, the DOH is rolling out its Philippine Strategic Tuberculosis Elimination Plan Phase 2 (PhilSTEP2) for 2025–2030. The plan emphasizes early detection — using portable AI-powered chest X-rays — and faster diagnosis through advanced tests, such as nucleic acid amplification.
Under this strategy, the DOH aims to screen 12 million Filipinos by 2026. To support this, the department is proposing a 2026 TB budget of ₱4.2 billion, nearly double its 2025 allocation.
The DOH is also expanding its Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) program, especially among close contacts of TB patients and those at high risk. Additionally, the agency is promoting shorter drug regimens and more patient-centered care to improve treatment success.
Why This Matters:
- With one of the highest TB burdens in the world, the Philippines needs stronger funding and more aggressive screening to prevent further spread.
- Investing in technology (like AI X-rays) and modern diagnostic tools can speed up detection and treatment, saving lives.
- Enhancing prevention and treatment strategies helps reduce long-term health costs and supports public health goals.