US allots P139 million assistance for DOH’s anti- COVID-19 measures in Philippines

March 17, 2020

The United States government has committed more than P139 million in assistance to help the Philippine government in its fight against coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The US Embassy in Manila  said Tuesday  the US government through the US Agency for International Development (USAID) will collaborate with the Department of Health to establish and implement internationally-recognized infectious disease threat prevention and response strategies, and enhance infection control.

“US assistance will strengthen specimen transport systems and laboratory capacity to accurately and rapidly detect cases,” the US embassy said in a statement.

“The assistance also will help protect health workers and patients by ensuring that hygiene products, masks, waste management supplies, and other necessary commodities are available, delivered, and managed appropriately,” it added.

The US Embassy stressed that the Washington’s supported programs will expand communities’ disease preparedness and access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services and commodities. DMS