Zuellig Family Foundation and Sulu Provincial Government Held Key Discussions To Improve Health Governance
News | by Krizzia Esperanza
Representatives from the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) Board of Trustees visited the office of Governor Abdusakur “Sakur” Tan at the Sulu Provincial Capitol to discuss potential collaborations in health leadership and governance in February 2025. The discussions centered on addressing healthcare challenges, improving health services, and strengthening governance mechanisms in the province.
The ZFF delegation comprised Chairman Dr. Manuel Dayrit, President and Executive Director Austere Panadero, and Board of Trustees members Daniel Zuellig and Dr. Jaemin Park, along with ZFF staff from Manila and Mindanao. They were accompanied by resource persons and guests, led by Jonas Zuellig and Pascal Gueissaz.
Sulu’s Historical Challenges and Health Priorities
Governor Tan provided insights into Sulu’s past, particularly the impact of armed conflicts on local communities. He recalled the 1974 war in Jolo, which led to widespread destruction, displacement, and a lasting brain drain. Many families fled Sulu and resettled in Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga, Manila, and other parts of the country, contributing to a slow recovery process of all sectors, including health. The diaspora affected key sectors where skilled professionals left the province, further straining its health system.
Plans for Health Infrastructure and Access
During the discussion, Governor Tan outlined his administration’s priorities for healthcare, including:
- The establishment of a new health center focused on women and children, which will provide free medicines, laboratory tests, and maintenance medications for indigent families.
- The procurement of a dialysis machine and the construction of a “super health clinic” to expand healthcare services in the province.
- Addressing the gap in medicine accessibility, as many patients struggle to obtain necessary treatments despite PhilHealth coverage.
Addressing Health Data Challenges
A key concern raised was the need for improved data collection and management. Governor Tan pointed out that different government offices maintain separate databases, leading to inefficiencies in tracking health outcomes. He suggested a centralized data system to streamline health program implementation and ensure better decision-making.
Moving Forward
ZFF will continue to explore working with the Sulu Provincial Government to enhance health governance in the province. Governor Tan also expressed support for piloting ZFF’s health and nutrition programs in municipalities with the highest need.
ZFF looks forward to fostering a long-term partnership with the Sulu Provincial Government to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes for the people of Sulu.
