The Philippines faces significant challenges due to the misuse of antimicrobials in livestock. Key drivers include economic growth and rising demand for animal protein. Stakeholders in these sectors are widely misusing antimicrobials.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a serious threat to human, animal, and environmental health—both globally and in the Philippines. Various efforts to control AMR in the country have been undertaken. In 2014, the Government of the Philippines established the Inter-Agency Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance (ICAMR), led by the Department of Health and co-led by the Department of Agriculture. This committee facilitated the development of the Philippine National Action Plan (PNAP) on AMR.
Awareness-raising activities have been organised under the iAMResponsible campaign, launched in 2018. These efforts have primarily focused on students, farmers, and veterinarians, as outlined in the PNAP. However, while the iAMResponsible campaign has provided a framework and branding for awareness-raising activities targeting other stakeholders, it faces limitations due to inconsistent financial resources.
In this context, media outlets could be further engaged under the iAMResponsible campaign, as they play a crucial role in public health by disseminating vital information. Effective media engagement is key to raising awareness and educating the public about the risks and prevention strategies associated with AMR.
Dates: 12 August, 2025
Venue: Quezon City, Philippines
Participation: By invitation