Mapping the use of antimicrobial agents and spreading awareness of AMR

Workshops on mapping stakeholders and data sources to facilitate monitoring of the quantities and usage patterns of antimicrobial agents used in animals, and on enhancing private sector awareness of AMR

Background

Following an administrative order issued in 2014, the Republic of the Philippines established an inter-agency committee to develop a national plan to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The inter-agency committee (IC-AMR), co-chaired by the Philippines Departments of Health (DOH) and Agriculture (DA), subsequently produced the Philippine National Action Plan (PNAP) on AMR: One Health Approach. It contains seven (7) key strategies and activities to combat AMR in the country.

Key Strategy 7 calls for and specifies activities to extend awareness and understanding of AMR through effective communication and education. In line with the strategy, the Philippines actively participates in the annual celebration of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week. Activities of the IC-AMR and participating national departments and agencies include the development of educational materials. Consequently, the “iAMResponsible” communication campaign was developed under the PNAP for experts, academics, and the public. As an important stakeholder, the private sector also plays a significant role in promoting the responsible use of antimicrobials and is also engaged.

A workshop to foster learning and collaboration

In this context, a two-day workshop was organised, bringing together key stakeholders and experts to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing. This activity has been implemented under a project funded by the European Union (EU), “Working together to fight Antimicrobial Resistance,” as implemented by the Regional Tripartite (FAO, WHO, and WOAH) AMR Project.

Objectives

Overall: to identify the antimicrobial agents supply chain stakeholders, data sources and data collection systems as intended for use in animals, and provide recommendations for improvement
Specifically, to identify gaps and linkages of these data sources in data collection systems;
encourage the collaboration of relevant authorities in data collection and data sharing;
discuss international standards relevant to AMR awareness and promote the prudent use of antimicrobials;
introduce programmes of the government and partners relevant to food safety and AMR;
build partnerships and collaboration among government agencies, including local government units and private stakeholders;
and assess and enhance private sector awareness on AMR.