Manila: The Philippine government on Tuesday welcomed the adoption of a historic United Nations accord that sets out approaches for international coordination on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. The Pandemic Agreement, the first of its kind, was adopted during the 78th World Health Assembly in Switzerland, following three years of negotiations prompted by gaps identified in responses to the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippines' Department of Health Secretary and World Health Assembly president, Teodoro Herbosa, emphasized the significance of the agreement, noting that it represents a collective effort by governments worldwide. Herbosa stressed the importance of implementing the agreement's critical elements, including equitable access to pandemic-related health products.
Herbosa highlighted that the accord allows countries to learn from the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring better protection for future generations against potential pandemics. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) described the adoption as a 'historic milestone for multilateralism,' reaffirming the international community's commitment to strengthening global health cooperation.
Manila played a pivotal role in the negotiations, serving as a co-facilitator for several articles and advocating for fairness and inclusiveness in pandemic preparedness. The Philippines also championed provisions to safeguard healthcare workers' rights.
Key elements of the accord include commitments to pandemic prevention, surveillance, Pathogen Access and Benefits Sharing (PABS), and access to health products. WHO member-states will continue working on the PABS annex, with the agreement open for signature after its potential adoption next year.
The agreement will take effect following 60 ratifications, with the Philippines committed to ensuring a 'fair and effective agreement' that enhances global health security. WHO stated that pharmaceutical manufacturers in the PABS system would provide rapid access to vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics, focusing on the needs of developing countries.
The Pandemic Agreement's adoption followed its approval by member-state delegations on May 19, with overwhelming support and minimal abstentions.
