DOH expects tuberculosis medicine shipment by October

MANILA – Acting Health Secretary Edwin Mercado said on Wednesday that tuberculosis medicines and testing cartridges could arrive as early as October, signaling progress after extended delays in securing the essential drugs and equipment.

Mercado acknowledged that the Department of Health had encountered significant procurement challenges in obtaining anti-TB medications and diagnostic materials needed to sustain the country's tuberculosis control program. The bottlenecks have raised concerns about the continuity of treatment for patients across the healthcare system.

The acting secretary has directed the agency to accelerate its purchasing processes for critical drugs and laboratory equipment to prevent further disruptions. Officials stress the importance of maintaining steady supplies as the Philippines battles tuberculosis, a persistent public health challenge affecting thousands of Filipinos annually.

The DOH has not provided detailed specifications on quantities or the exact dates of expected deliveries. Officials are working with suppliers to confirm shipment schedules and ensure adequate stock levels at health facilities nationwide.