Equipping Experts & Enhancing Lives: DPCB and PeerLINC Join Hands in a Training Initiative to Strengthen TB Response in the Philippines

In a significant step toward improving drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) care, the PeerLINC Knowledge Hub conducted an intensive training from February 3-7, 2025, equipping national and regional personnel of Disease Prevention and Control Bureau (DPCB) of DOH of the Philippines with the knowledge and skills to implement the BPaL/M treatment regimen.

The training brought together 28 participants, including physicians, nurses, and health officials, to strengthen their capabilities in managing DR-TB under the country’s decentralized healthcare model. Additionally, with site visits to local treatment facilities, participants gained firsthand insights into patient management, laboratory procedures, and community engagement strategies.

Key learnings included updates on DR-TB treatment protocols, people-centered care approaches, and strategies for integrating gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) into TB programs. A post training assessment revealed increased understanding of best practices and approaches relating to DR-TB care with modern tools.

The training also informed proposed updates to the country’s TB action plan, focusing on policy support for treatment monitoring, training enhancements, and improved adverse event reporting. The Philippines’ DPCB team aims to finalize national and regional implementation plans, address policy gaps, and expand training opportunities. PeerLINC will facilitate follow-up meetings and provide further technical assistance as needed.

Participants praised the initiative’s organization and impact. Dr. Jannish E. Alcala-Arellano, Medical NTP Coordinator of Bicol Region, noted, “As regional coordinators, we provide technical assistance to our implementers, so we need to master these processes ourselves. This training has equipped us to better support our local government unit partners.”

With continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the PeerLINC Knowledge Hub and the DPCB of DOH of the Philippines remain committed to strengthening DR-TB care and improving patient outcomes nationwide.