SwissCham Philippines Life Sciences and Digital Health Innovation Cluster initiates collaboration with Quezon City in health and innovation
In a strategic move aimed at bolstering collaborative ties with Local Government Units (LGUs), the Swiss Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (SwissCham Philippines) and members of its Life Sciences and Digital Health Innovation Cluster recently held a courtesy meeting with Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. Anchored within the framework of the Local Government Advocacy and Innovation Rounds (AIR), this gathering aims to tackle challenges, exchange best practices, and foster robust partnerships such as on health and innovation.
During the session, member companies of SwissCham Philippines shared insights into their ongoing initiatives and activities. Roche highlighted its “Mission Leapfrog,” a collaborative endeavor aimed at revolutionizing healthcare outcomes. This innovative program introduces an end-to-end referral system, developed in close collaboration with key stakeholders, to drive localized cancer care programs within Quezon City. Additionally, Zuellig elaborated on efforts to optimize the distribution network of essential pharmaceuticals and technology, with a particular emphasis on vaccine logistics to ensure seamless deployment.
The dialogue likewise explored potential avenues for collaboration in health digitalization. Mayor Belmonte outlined Quezon City’s plans for implementing a comprehensive patient system in its network of hospitals. Delving into the intricacies of technology adoption and awareness, the discussion also addressed pressing concerns regarding vaccine accessibility during local outbreaks, emphasizing transparency and navigating barriers related to health technology assessment and healthcare financing.
Furthermore, Mayor Belmonte shed light on healthtech startups ecosystem in the city, underscoring opportunities for talent development and localized employment initiatives. In response, SwissCham Philippines ensures support to facilitate the exchange of apprenticeship and employment opportunities. This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to pioneering solutions and fostering innovative partnerships in health and technology. The visiting delegation include Kent Marjun Primor, SwissCham Philippines Director of Operations; Christian Fampulme, SwissCham Philippines Project Officer; Michael Alzona, Zuellig Pharma Head and Vice President for Government Affairs; Ma. Teresa Dioko, Roche Philippines Health Ecosystem Chapter Lead; and Ella Reaviles, Roche Philippines Health Systems Partner.
In photo (L-R): Azer Villola, QC Government Office of the City Administrator; QC Government Staff; Dr. Ramona Abarquez, QC Government Health Department OIC; Dr. Dave Vergara, QC Government Chief Healthcare Operations Officer, Ella Reaviles, Roche Philippines Health Systems Partner; Kent Marjun Primor, SwissCham Philippines Director of Operations; Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte; Christian Fampulme, SwissCham Philippines Project Officer; Ma. Teresa Dioko, Roche Philippines Health Ecosystem Chapter Lead; Michael Alzona, Zuellig Pharma Head and Vice President for Government Affairs; Jong Sumpaico, QC Government Local Economic and Investment Promotion Office; and QC Government Staff.
