The Department of Health (DOH) has launched a new project to fight tuberculosis in hard-to-reach areas. With support from the Japanese government and the Stop TB Partnership/UNOPS, the “Enhancing Tuberculosis Screening in Remote Areas” project deployed 20 ultra-portable X-ray units. These units use AI-CAD technology. They will serve isolated communities in 19 provinces. The goal is to improve early TB detection and expand access to care. This step supports the push for universal health coverage in the Philippines.
Tuberculosis remains a major public health issue in the country. Many cases go undetected, especially in remote areas. Limited access to diagnostic tools delays treatment. The new project aims to close this gap. The portable X-ray machines are easy to transport. They can be used in rural clinics and barangay health centers. AI-CAD (Artificial Intelligence for Computer-Aided Detection) helps scan X-rays. It can spot signs of TB in the lungs faster than traditional methods.
The launch event was held in Manila. Key officials attended. H.E. Kazuya Endo, Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, gave the opening remarks. He stressed Japan’s strong support for health programs in the Philippines. “We stand with the DOH in the fight against TB,” he said. “Early detection saves lives.” H.E. Teodoro Herbosa, Secretary of Health, also spoke. He thanked Japan and its partners. “This project brings life-saving technology to those who need it most,” he said.
Dr. Lucica Ditiu, Executive Director of the Stop TB Partnership, joined the event virtually. She highlighted the importance of innovation in ending TB. “We cannot fight this disease with old tools alone,” she said. “AI and portable devices are game-changers.” Suvanand Sahu, Deputy Executive Director of the Stop TB Partnership, presented the project’s plan. He explained how the units will be distributed. Training for health workers will follow. Andrew Kirkwood, Director of the UNOPS Geneva Office, also voiced support. UNOPS will manage the grant and ensure smooth implementation.
A grant agreement was formally signed during the event. Ambassador Endo and UNOPS representatives signed on behalf of their institutions. The funding from Japan will cover the cost of the units and operational support. The project will run in 19 provinces with high TB burden and poor access to services. Local health teams will use the units during outreach programs. Patients will get results faster. Those with suspected TB will be referred for confirmatory tests and treatment.
This initiative is a step toward ending TB in the Philippines. It aligns with national and global health goals. Faster diagnosis means fewer transmissions. It also improves the chances of full recovery. The DOH hopes this model can be expanded in the future.
For more information, contact the Department of Health Public Affairs Office at (02) 8651-7800 local 4203 or email dohpublicaffairs@doh.gov.ph.
Japan Helps Bring TB Screening to Remote Areas in Philippines
