ADB grants $3M for PH COVID-19 medical supplies

The Philippines will receive a $3-million grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to purchase emergency medical supplies and equipment for its COVID-19 response.

The grant, managed by ADB from the Asia-Pacific Disaster Response Fund, will be used for diagnostic reagents, materials for makeshift hospitals, and personal protective supplies for health workers.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III announced the grant, which was negotiated by the Department of Finance (DOF) for the Department of Health (DOH).

ADB will collaborate with the DOH, World Health Organization (WHO), and relevant UN agencies to ensure timely procurement and delivery of medical supplies.

ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa stated that the assistance will help the Philippines overcome financial and logistical constraints in providing emergency medical services.

Additional funding for the DOH includes P2.5 billion from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) and P450 million from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

Budget Secretary Wendel E. Avisado assured that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is prepared to expedite fund releases despite the community quarantine.