Mainstreaming Health in All Policies Systems Framework in the COVID-19 Response Strategy of LGUs in the Philippines

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic compelled Local Government Units (LGU) in the Philippines to employ an extensive mix of approaches and strategies in managing the threats and challenges it has posed. Critical to the implementation of these strategies is the collaboration and coordination of different actors and stakeholders within and outside the government. This paper looks into the process of interactions in the planning and implementation of the LGUs’ community response strategy against COVID-19. Using the Health in All Policies Systems Framework of Shankardass, et al. (2018), it highlights the importance of cultivating synergistic actions in the governmental and extra-governmental systems in order to address critical problems in the community. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need to harmonize the programs and initiatives of the LGUs with the aim of ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of their local community response even beyond the pandemic.