TBpeople Philippines participated in the TB-HIV Regional Coordinating Committee Meeting in San Fernando, Pampanga, joining forces with key government agencies, healthcare organizations, and civil society groups. Among the attendees were FHI 360 EPIC PH, Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital (JBLMGH), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Social Security System (SSS), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), National Youth Commission (NYC), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine College of Occupational Medicine-Olongapo (PCOM-Olongapo), V.L. Makabali Memorial Hospital Inc., Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Civil Service Commission (CSC), Clark Freeport Corporation, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Lakan Community Center, Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), the Provincial Government of Bulacan, Philippine National Police (PNP), and PhilHealth.
The Department of Health – Central Luzon Center for Health Development (DOH-CLCHD) expressed its sincere appreciation to TBpeople Philippines for its continued commitment and active participation in the region’s Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Program (TPCP) and the Regional AIDS, STIs, and Viral Hepatitis Prevention and Control Program (RASVPCP). The meeting, held at Bendix Hotel in San Fernando, Pampanga, highlighted the value of collaboration across sectors in the battle against tuberculosis (TB) and HIV.
During the meeting, TBpeople Philippines, serving as both a patient support group and a technical partner, underscored the critical role of local patient support groups in strengthening TB and HIV interventions. They emphasized the importance of empowering communities to take ownership of the fight against TB, stressing that sustainable progress starts with local initiatives. By nurturing a strong network of support for both patients and healthcare workers at the community level, TBpeople Philippines advocates for a bottom-up approach, aiming to first eliminate TB in local areas, then expand efforts to cities and municipalities, and ultimately achieve a TB-free Philippines.
As a leading voice for TB survivors, TBpeople Philippines highlighted the need for patient-centered approaches that align with the realities faced by those affected by the disease. Their participation in the meeting contributed valuable insights into how localized patient support systems can not only improve treatment adherence but also enhance public awareness and reduce stigma. The organization called for increased investment in grassroots-level engagement, recognizing that community support is essential for effective prevention, treatment, and care.
The TB-HIV Regional Coordinating Committee Meeting served as a vital platform for stakeholders to share updates, align strategies, and reinforce their collective commitment to addressing the dual public health challenges of TB and HIV. The gathering also emphasized the importance of integrated approaches, where TB and HIV programs work hand in hand to address co-infections and ensure that no patient is left behind. Looking ahead, TBpeople Philippines will continue to build on its partnership with DOH-CLCHD and other key stakeholders, advocating for patient empowerment and community-driven solutions as central pillars in the fight against TB and HIV. Their dedication to fostering collaborative and inclusive healthcare initiatives remains a cornerstone in the journey toward a TB- and HIV-free Philippines
