Japan provides mobile X-ray machine for remote TB screening of Aeta communities in Olongapo City, Zambales through ODA

On August 1, 2024, Second Secretary NISHIMURA Tokiko represented the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines during the official turnover of a mobile X-ray machine to the Center for Health Innovations and Solutions (CHSI, Inc.) and the City of Olongapo, Zambales. The event was graced by Olongapo City Mayor Hon. Rolen C. Paulino, Jr., Managing Director of CHSI, Inc. Dr. Carmina A. Aquino, Mr. MIYAKO Takashi  of Fujifilm Philippines Inc., and other LGU officials including representatives from the Aeta community. Titled “The Project for the Provision of a Portable Chest X-Ray Machine for Olongapo City”, this project was approved in 2023 under the Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects (GGP), which is one of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) schemes. 

In Olongapo City, the number of tuberculosis (TB) screening has decreased since the Covid-19 pandemic, hindering the city’s TB prevention and treatment measures especially among high TB risk groups including indigenous people such as the Aetas. Moreover, due to economic disparity, Aeta people have limited access to medical services in the city.

As a remedial measure, the Embassy of Japan provided the grant amount of USD 87,756 or approximately PHP 4.94 million* to Manila-based NGO CHSI, Inc. to procure a mobile X-ray machine for Olongapo City. With the new mobile X-ray machine from Fujifilm Philippines Inc., the city will be able to conduct active TB case finding and provide comprehensive healthcare services to the Aeta community and the urban poor.

In her message, Ms. NISHIMURA recognized how the public-private partnership of this project sets an excellent example for delivering a speedy and remarkable result. She also shared her hope that the use of the new x-ray machine would contribute to the Philippines’ efforts toward ending TB.

Japan is the top ODA donor to the Philippines, and this year marks the 70th anniversary of ODA. The Government of Japan launched the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects in the Philippines in 1989 to reduce poverty and help various communities engage in grassroots activities. At present, 562 grassroots projects have been implemented by the GGP. Japan believes that these projects will strengthen the friendship between Japan and the Philippines and contribute to sustaining strategic partnerships between the two countries.

*Note: Dollar Rate 1 USD = PHP 56.30 (as of August 17, 2023)