The Philippines has reached more than a year into the implementation of quarantine measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the said period, the country recorded more than 1,000,000 cases, a GDP drop to -4.2% for the first quarter of 2021, an unemployment rate of 7.1% in March 2021, among other health and economic indicators. Meanwhile, this year has also marked the start of the administration of the COVID-19 vaccines as part of the government's mass inoculation program.
Indeed, the COVID-19 global health crisis has magnified the integral role that Universal Health Care plays in ensuring the continuity of day-to-day activities, as well as the country's economic recovery and stability. In achieving this, it is essential that a multi-stakeholder approach is put in place and actively implemented.
It is in this context that the ECCP is organizing a virtual forum entitled "The Economic Benefits of Universal Health Care in the Context of COVID-19", via Zoom. With speakers from the Philippine government as well as economic and health experts, this event will highlight how a strengthened healthcare system will not only protect the lives of the Filipinos but also help safeguard the country's economy.
In close partnership with government, businesses, civil society, and academia, ECCP passionately works to enhance the business environment for both European and Filipino companies.