Jhpiego

The philippines, an archipelago in southeastern asia, faces a myriad of health issues exacerbated by factors such as population growth and the geographical challenge of more than 7,000 dispersed islands. The 2011 family health survey (fhs) showed that maternal mortality increased from 162 to 221 deaths per 100,000 live births between 2006 and 2011, and it is projected that the philippines millennium development goal target for maternal mortality will not be achieved. Although antenatal care, facility-based delivery and skilled birth attendance are increasing, fhs data showed a continued high preference for traditional birth attendants, particularly in poor regions. Despite a national population program and recent declines in fertility, the population reference bureau estimates the country’s population will increase by more than 25% by 2025 (to 120.2 Million). Coupled with rapid urbanization, this population growth challenges the ability of health care workers and health services to reach those in need of care, especially the poor and most at risk.