Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines and Takeda Healthcare Philippines Inc. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at providing equitable healthcare for patients suffering from Hodgkin’s lymphoma and inflammatory bowel disease on Sept. 24, 2024.
The collaboration focuses on delivering comprehensive treatment for the serious conditions, which often impact individuals in their most productive years.
It also seeks to address the difficult choices faced by young breadwinners who must choose between essential treatment and providing for their families.
“It’s disheartening to see that they’re at the prime of their lives, and the illness affects them and their families,” said Sheryll Anne Corpuz, lead of access to medicines at Takeda Philippines.
She said the program aims to increase patients’ survival rates.
Tzu Chi Foundation chief executive Henry Yuñez expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting its potential to provide timely treatment to underserved communities.
The initiative expands Tzu Chi’s medical assistance program and aligns with its mission to support financially struggling patients.
Loreann Villanueva, country manager of Takeda Philippines, said the partnership represents a significant collaboration between the organizations to enhance their impact on the Filipino community.
Takeda Philippines, a multinational biopharmaceutical company based in Japan, follows the mission towards better health for the future of every individual.
Tzu Chi Foundation is Takeda Philippines’ first non-government organization (NGO) partner for patient assistance program.
Both organizations committed to implementing the program as soon as possible.