Philippines backs WHO's leadership in fight against COVID-19: Presidential spokesperson

Philippine Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said on Thursday that the Philippines "stands committed" to the World Health Organization (WHO), lauding the U.N. body's leadership in the global fight to combat COVID-19.

"We support the WHO. As far as the Philippines is concerned we stand committed to the WHO and we will give our contribution when the need arises," Roque said in a virtual briefing.

Roque urged nations to cooperate and support WHO, and to contribute to the WHO fund, adding that if not for WHO no other body will lead the coordination in the fight against the highly infectious disease.

"I hope that all nations of the world will continue to cooperate with WHO and it's also important to contribute to the fund of the WHO," he added.

Roque was reacting to a reporter's question about the decision of U.S. President Donald Trump to temporarily halt funding to WHO over its handling of the new coronavirus pandemic.

Like many countries in the world, the Philippines is also grappling with the rising number of COVID-19 cases. The country now has 5,453 cases, including 349 deaths and 353 recoveries.

(CGTN)