MANILA – The Government of Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), turned over support for the strengthening of cold chain management and logistics of the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure the country’s capacity in effectively responding to existing and future health crises, like the COVID-19.
According to the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, the turnover ceremony was attended by Minister for Economic Affairs NIHEI Daisuke and DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, together with officials from JICA Philippines, led by country Representative SAKAMOTO Takema and other DOH officials.
In his speech, Minister Nihei commended the efforts of the Philippine government and its health department in leading the entire health workforce in effectively responding to the COVID-19 crisis.
According to Nihei, he hopes that the pandemic’s lessons will serve as “catalysts” to better prepare for future health emergencies.
The Japanese official also reiterated the importance of cooperation among stakeholders at all levels in ensuring “a safe and healthier for all”.
Among the notable contributions of Japan to the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic was a grant worth approximately 700 million Japanese yen or PHP 260 million, dedicated to strengthen the Philippine’s cold chain management and logistics.
The procurement includes essential resources, such as eight (8) refrigerated vans, 17 delivery vans, 17 pick-up trucks, 18 wing vans trucks, 500 biothermal packaging systems and 140 ice pack freezers.
Overall, the Embassy confirms that the Japanese government has provided over USD 100 billion in comprehensive COVID 19 subsidies for the Philippines, ranging from vaccines, medicines, equipment, technical assistance, budgetary support, food, livelihood and many more.
