TBPeople Philippines Joins the Inaugural Philippine Patients Congress Event
TBpeople Philippines proudly took part in the inaugural Philippine Patients Congress, hosted by the Philippine Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (PAPO) on August 29-30, 2024, at the Asian Development Bank (ADB), 6 ADB Avenue, Mandaluyong City.
This groundbreaking event brought together a diverse assembly of patient advocates, stakeholders, and healthcare professionals from across the nation, all united by a shared mission: to amplify patient voices and drive meaningful change within the Philippine healthcare system. Serving as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices, the congress marked a significant step toward a more patient-centered future.
Day 1: Laying the Foundation for a Stronger Healthcare System
The first day of the congress set a powerful tone, featuring engaging discussions and inspiring stories. Participants explored the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare system, sharing insights and strategies to foster a more inclusive and responsive environment for all patients. Among the notable speakers was Senator JV Ejercito, who emphasized the critical importance of a patient-centered health system in today’s world. He highlighted key legislative efforts, including Senate Bill No. 2620, aimed at amending the Universal Health Care Act to lower PhilHealth premium contributions.
Senator Ejercito expressed his honor in speaking at the congress, which united 300 patient advocates alongside representatives from the government, academia, healthcare, and private sectors nationwide. He underscored the urgency of a patient-centered health system, especially as the country faces the challenges of modern healthcare. He assured the audience of his continued commitment to advocating for laws and reforms that prioritize patient-centered care, ensuring that healthcare delivery in the Philippines remains responsive, equitable, and inclusive.
During the Philippine Patients Congress, Mrs. Elosa Zepeda-Teng, the President and Founder of TBPeople Philippines, delivered a concern regarding the ongoing stockouts of first-line tuberculosis (TB) medications. In her address to the congress, she raised critical concerns about the prolonged shortages of essential TB drugs, which have significantly impacted the timely treatment of patients across the country.
Day 2: Uniting for Change
The second day of the congress maintained the momentum, with participants sharing more inspiring stories, forging meaningful connections, and engaging in impactful discussions. The atmosphere was electric with a shared commitment to advocating for better healthcare and patient rights. The active participation of the TBpeople Philippines delegation was particularly heartening, as they brought the unique perspectives and lived experiences of tuberculosis survivors to the forefront of the conversation.
TBpeople Philippines’ involvement underscored the importance of including the voices of those who have directly experienced the challenges of the healthcare system. Their contributions highlighted the need for policies and practices that address the realities faced by TB survivors, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of better healthcare outcomes.
A Collaborative Effort for a Better Future
The Philippine Patients Congress was a testament to the power of collective action. Supported by leading pharmaceutical companies and healthcare organizations, the event showcased the potential for cross-sector collaboration to create a more equitable and effective healthcare system.
As the congress concluded, the spirit of unity and shared purpose was palpable. The journey toward a patient-centered healthcare system is just beginning, and TBpeople Philippines is committed to leading the way, advocating for the rights and well-being of all patients, particularly those affected by tuberculosis.
Boses ng PAPO, Pulso ng Pasyente. #TBpeoplePH #TibayNgBayanihangPinoy