The Philippines faces a significant challenge in reducing its maternal mortality rate. To address this, the Department of Health (DOH) has launched an ambitious initiative to expand access to quality healthcare services, particularly for the 28 million Filipinos most in need. This initiative, known as "28 for 28 by 28," aims to establish 28 new BUCAS (Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services) centers by 2028, with a target of reducing the maternal mortality rate from 144 to 113 per 100,000 live births. BUCAS centers are strategically positioned as intermediate health facilities, bridging the gap between primary care and hospitals. They will offer essential urgent care services, including minor surgeries and ancillary services, seven days a week. This increased accessibility to timely and quality care is crucial for improving maternal health outcomes and reducing preventable deaths. The UNFPA Philippines Country Office (CO) is committed to supporting the DOH in achieving these goals. To maximize its impact, UNFPA is transitioning from a traditional funding model to a financing model that leverages investments to mobilize additional resources.

In this context, UNFPA’s Strategic Investment Facility (SIF) will support DOH’s priority projects in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This strategic partnership between UNFPA, DOH and ADB will enable establishing and effective operation BUCAS centers. In line with this, UNFPA is looking to engage with an implementing partner. The specific objectives of the terms of the reference are as follows:

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of existing BUCAS centers.
• Develop and implement robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E;) systems for BUCAS and related initiatives.
• Support the development of policies and guidelines for BUCAS and Purok Kalusugan operationalization.
• Contribute to the achievement of national health targets related to BUCAS establishment and functionality.
• Ensure that the BUCAS program and related initiatives contribute to improved Maternal Health (MH) and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) outcomes in the Philippines.

Expected Results
The Implementing Partner is expected to deliver the following main outputs for the partnership: Comprehensive Assessment Report of BUCAS centers Review of Human Resource for Health (HRH) for ambulatory care services Document on Competency requirements for BUCAS HRH Draft Policy BUCAS standards and Disseminations.

How to apply
Interested organizations can find the call for proposals on the UN Partner Portal, look for 'Partnership Opportunities', and apply for the 'Implementation of the Strategic Investment Facility (SIF) for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in the Philippines'.

Applicants highly encouraged to submit via UN Partner Portal. Alternatively, they may send their proposals using the template to sif.ph@unfpa.org if errors arise.

Application Deadline
February 21, 2025. Proposals received after the date and time may not be accepted for consideration.

Relevant documents
Proposal Template 
Terms of Reference for Implementing Partner