Audit of Global Fund Grants in the Philippines
22 October 2021
The Philippines is moving closer to eliminating malaria by 2030, while case notification outcomes for presumptive tuberculosis increased by 25% between 2017 and 2019. For HIV, however, success has been more modest. New infections increased by 214% from 2010 to 2018, and deaths by 220% between 2010 and 2019.
To minimize COVID disruptions, the Global Fund introduced grant flexibilities and C19RM funding for disease programs. Funds were provided in a timely manner and utilized effectively, with a high absorption rate.
The Secretariat needs to improve the design of grants and leverage their catalytic role. There is a need to improve TB/MDR-TB screening and diagnosis, support interventions to address challenges in treatment initiation, improve follow-up of lost patients, and increase monitoring of treatment outcomes.
Despite the Global Fund projecting that the Philippines will become ineligible for malaria grant funding in the 2023-2025 grant cycle, and for all financing by 2028, the country is yet to prepare a comprehensive transition plan.