Takeda Healthcare Philippines Inc., a leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, has recently entered into a partnership with the Tzu Chi Foundation to enhance its Patient Assistance Program (PAP), focusing on patients battling Hodgkin Lymphoma and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
The Tzu Chi Foundation, an international humanitarian organization with a 27-year presence in the Philippines, is known for its efforts in disaster relief, education, healthcare, and environmental protection. It holds a special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC) and has made a significant positive impact on underserved communities.
Through this collaboration, Takeda aims to provide crucial funding assistance to individuals affected by rare diseases, helping them start and complete necessary treatments. This support will improve patients’ quality of life, enabling them to become more active and productive members of society.
“We are excited about this partnership as it allows us to make a meaningful impact by supporting those in need. Tzu Chi’s mission to alleviate suffering and create a better world aligns perfectly with our own commitment to improving health and providing a brighter future for all. Together, our expertise and resources will address critical health challenges and promote more equitable access to healthcare for those suffering from rare diseases,” said Loreann Villanueva, Country Manager of Takeda in the Philippines.
Tzu Chi Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez also emphasized the significance of the collaboration: “Tzu Chi’s mission is to help, and this partnership allows us to extend our reach to more people in need.”
Under this partnership, Takeda and Tzu Chi Foundation will co-fund treatments for patients requiring antibody-drug conjugates for Hodgkin lymphoma or monoclonal antibody medicines for IBD.
Patients interested in the PAP can apply through their doctors, who will assess their eligibility. Once approved, they will be referred to the Tzu Chi Foundation for further evaluation and financial assistance.
Tzu Chi Foundation Director Peggy Sy-Jiang noted, “The challenges in the country are vast, and no single NGO or charity organization can address them all. Takeda’s example sets a strong precedent for other pharmaceutical companies and corporations to contribute and make a difference.”
Lymphoma, the most common type of blood cancer, poses challenges in early detection due to subtle symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and painless lymph node swelling. In 2020, more than 83,000 new cases of Hodgkin lymphoma were reported globally. Since 2022, Takeda Philippines has been proactive in raising lymphoma awareness through initiatives like the “Spot Lymphoma Stop Lymphoma” campaign. This campaign involves collaborations with esteemed organizations including the Philippine College of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine (PCHTM), the Philippine Society of Medical Oncologists (PSMO), the Philippine Society of Hematology and Blood Transfusion (PSHBT), and the Philippine Society of Pathology (PSP). It aims to educate the public and healthcare professionals, supported by partnerships with the Philippine Cancer Society for CD30 biomarker testing for Hodgkin lymphoma, and with Health Futures Inc. to deliver continuing medical education for oncology nurses.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which leads to chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, is becoming increasingly common in Asia due to rapid industrialization. In the Philippines, Crohn’s and Colitis Philippines, an active patient support group, has grown to over 100 members. Despite being classified as a rare disease with limited local prevalence data, estimates suggest over 300 cases in the country, underscoring the critical need for increased awareness and support.
Takeda notes that fewer than half of Hodgkin Lymphoma patients are able to commence treatment, and 45% of IBD patients face significant financial challenges, making it difficult to afford even one dose of medication to begin therapy. The recent partnership aims to bridge this gap by providing access to innovative treatment options for patients with Hodgkin Lymphoma and IBD.
Takeda’s patient assistance program plays a crucial role in helping patients access essential treatment, reinforcing its commitment to a healthier, more supported community. These efforts underscore the importance of accessible care for those living with these serious conditions.
For more information about Takeda Healthcare Philippines, Inc. and its initiatives, please visit Takeda’s official website.
