DoH gets health emergency equipment from JICA

THE Department of Health (DoH) on Monday received cold chain equipment and vehicles from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in support of the Philippines' health crisis emergency response.

Officially turned over by the Japanese Embassy, the donation initiative aims to strengthen the country's cold chain management and logistics to ensure an efficient and effective vaccination system in times of outbreaks.

The equipment includes 140 ice pack freezers and 500 thermal packaging systems, while the vehicle fleet consists of 17 units of Nissan Navara Pickup services with canopy, 17 units of delivery vans, 18 units of wing vans and eight units of refrigerated vans.

The department said that the vans and cold chain systems will be distributed to health facilities across the country.

Learning from the critical importance of robust cold chain systems during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Japanese government has extended its support to the country by providing grants amounting to 700 million yen, roughly P260 million.

This funding facilitated the procurement of essential cold chain equipment and transport vehicles, which will enhance the country's vaccination infrastructure.

«I want to reiterate our profound gratitude to the government of Japan and JICA for their support and solidarity. Let this donation serve as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship between our countries and our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our people,» Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.