As of the most recent data for 2024, the comparative life expectancies for Singaporean and the Philippine resident populations at age 65 respectively are:
Singapore
• Male: 19.5 more years — (i.e. a 65-year-old man can expect to live until around 85 years old)
• Female: 22.7 more years — (i.e. a 65-year-old woman can expect to live up to 88 years old)
Philippines
• Male: 11.4 more years — (i.e. a 65-year-old man can expect to live until around age 76.4)
• Female: 14 more years — (i.e. a 65-year-old woman can expect to live up to 79 years old)
Outside economic, social, and infrastructure systems, the longer life expectancy of Singaporeans compared to Filipinos at age 65 can be attributed to the former’s world-class healthcare system in terms of efficiency, accessibility, medical expertise, and technological advancement.
In contrast, our healthcare system often suffers from delayed services, overcrowded public hospitals, and understaffing, resulting in poor quality of care, especially in rural areas. Even in private hospitals, the quality of care and service can be inconsistent, with patients having to wait for hours to see a doctor despite having an appointment.
One key area our country should emulate is Singapore’s streamlined healthcare processes. Over there, patients can undergo diagnostic procedures such as blood tests, X-rays, or MRIs and receive the results within hours, with reports sent to doctors the same day. I can attest to this from my recent experience there.
This level of efficiency allows for faster diagnosis and treatment, improving patient outcomes and minimizing prolonged discomfort or disease progression. Here in the Philippines, however, patients are asked to return many days later for test results, creating frustration, anxiety, and delayed treatment.
Singapore’s integration of digital health records and centralized hospital networks allows seamless coordination among doctors, labs, and patients. Replicating this system would require government investment, policy reforms, and partnerships with the private sector.
Surprisingly, many of the highly regarded nurses in Singapore’s government and private hospitals are Filipinos. They are trusted and respected for their skills, work ethic, and compassion. They perform under higher expectations with better support systems, training, and facilities—further highlighting what is possible when governance, investment, and accountability align.
I do hope with strategic planning, reforms, and commitment, our country (through good governance) can also build a more responsive, patient-centered, and technologically advanced healthcare system that we all deserve.
Best of health,
Romy Sia
romy@healthyoptions.com.ph
