PH pledges $10 million to WHO, Senator Imee Marcos asks why

Senator Imee Marcos filed a resolution seeking an inquiry into the Philippine government's reported $10 million pledge to the World Health Organization (WHO) through the Department of Health (DOH).

In a statement posted on the Senate website, the senator asked, “$10 million is equivalent to roughly ₱600 million. Is this pledge more urgent, necessary, or beneficial than using the same funds directly for Filipino patients and health facilities?”

“In contrast, PhilHealth has yet to pay billions to DOH Hospitals and the entire country has a ballooning ₱18.5 trillion debt as of March 2026, making this “generous” donation questionable!” she said.

According to the senator, the pledge was reportedly made in October 2024 during the 75th Session of the Western Pacific Regional Committee.

Marcos said the contribution was earmarked for WHO's Investment Round from 2025 to 2028.

The senator said it is necessary to obtain documents, authorizations, and clearances related to the pledge.

“We must ensure that public funds are disbursed in a lawful, prudent, transparent, and accountable manner, especially amid competing domestic healthcare priorities,” she said.

“While international cooperation is important, it is not clear whether such a large commitment was supported by our legal processes,” she added.

-Paraluman News