Close to 6,000 participants gathered in Quirino Grandstand, Manila, on Saturday, March 16, 2024, for this year’s World Tuberculosis (TB) Day. The Philippines achieved a significant milestone by officially breaking India’s record for the “largest human lung formation,” surpassing the previous record of 5,003 participants set in 2017.
The Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the World Health Organization (WHO) Philippines, the Philippines Business for Social Progress (PBSP) and more, raises awareness about tuberculosis, highlights the importance of having healthy lungs, and breaks the stigma about the disease.
“TB continues to be a global concern even in 2024. With over a million cases, the Philippines has the third-highest number of TB cases worldwide. Unfortunately, among all infectious diseases in the nation, TB remains one of the leading causes of death even though it can be cured,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.
In response to this year’s World Tuberculosis Day, the Department of Health reports that approximately 70 Filipinos die of TB daily, highlighting the severity of this bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs.
“Our attempt to break the Guinness World Record isn’t just about setting records; it’s a call to action and a show of our shared commitment to overcome the challenges posed by tuberculosis,” Herbosa added.
With the theme “Tuloy ang Bayanihan, TB ay Tuldukan,” the event has brought thousands of participants from different backgrounds, such as health workers, 4Ps beneficiaries, university students, and community members, embodying the collaborative measure to showcase its commitment to addressing public health challenges and fighting against TB in the country.
