ILOILO – The Iloilo Provincial Health Office has received a notice from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) regarding the temporary suspension of all USAID-funded activities. This decision follows the directive issued by U.S. President Donald Trump.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon, Head of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office, confirmed that key initiatives under the Support for Wide-scale Interventions to Find TB Project are currently on hold. This includes the hiring of additional health personnel, the deployment of mobile X-ray services, and engagement with community tuberculosis (TB) stakeholders.
However, Dr. Quiñon reassured the public that the Tuberculosis program in Iloilo would continue without disruption, as it has now become part of the regular health programs of the Provincial Office and local government units.
She also mentioned that the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) continues to provide free mobile X-ray screenings, trains TB service providers, and supports high-quality TB data reporting.
The Philippine Coalition Against Tuberculosis (PCAT) and the Department of Health (DOH) have also committed to continuing their support.
Dr. Quiñon emphasized that USAID has played a significant role in the health and well-being of the people of Iloilo, particularly in the areas of Universal Health Care, Family Planning, and Adolescent Health and Development, through the ReachHealth Project that started in 2023.
She expressed hope that the U.S. government would reconsider and allow the continuation of life-saving projects in Iloilo.
