MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is among 124 countries backing a newly adopted pandemic accord by the World Health Organization (WHO), aimed at strengthening global cooperation in future health emergencies.
Adopted at the 78th session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, the accord outlines commitments to early outbreak detection, coordinated response measures, and equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments.
Image from the United Nations
Under the agreement, pharmaceutical companies are required to allocate 20% of their real-time pandemic production (10% as donations and 10% at affordable prices) to help low- and middle-income countries. This provision addresses major gaps revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly vaccine hoarding and delayed access for vulnerable nations.
“This is a win for global solidarity,” WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said following its adoption. He emphasized the need to avoid repeating the mistakes of the COVID-19 response.
The Philippines’ support signals alignment with international health standards and is expected to shape future policies on preparedness and emergency response.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness
Health officials say the accord will improve the country’s readiness while contributing to a more coordinated global response. Implementation details are expected to be outlined in the coming months.
References
Agence France-Presse. (n.d.). Philippines, other nations adopt WHO pandemic agreement, but what’s inside? GMA News. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/health-science/2025/5/21/philippines-other-nations-adopt-who-pandemic-agreement-but-what-s-inside-0930
PNA. (n.d.). WHO adopts historic accord on pandemic prevention, response. PNA. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250533