The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) hosted a two-day emergency medical simulation training from April 23-24 at the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) Emergency Operations Center in Clark Special Economic Zone, Pampanga. 100 people from 11 organizations in various sectors, including local governments, the University of the Philippines, the Office of Civil Defense, and military medical personnel, participated in the training. In addition to those from within the Philippines, international teams such as the Japanese emergency medical team ARROWS and a Taiwanese emergency medical team also participated in the training.

The joint training has been held in Japan and Taiwan in the past, but this was the first time it was held in the Philippines. The first day of the two-day training included introductions of the participating organizations, speeches by each representative, and confirmation of the training content to be conducted on the second day. In addition, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed between the Philippine Medical Association, PDRF, and A-PAD Philippines to jointly carry out relief activities in the event of a disaster.

On the second day, the training was conducted under the assumption that a magnitude 7.4 earthquake had occurred in Pampanga province and a national emergency had been declared by the president. The participants learned the entire process, starting with transporting patients by ambulance, checking their condition, classifying the severity of the condition, and providing treatment based on each level. This kind of practical training develops the logical thinking and decision-making skills required in the event of a disaster.

This training was made possible as a result of the partnerships cultivated through previous Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects. The joint training further deepened cooperation between the organizations, providing a meaningful opportunity that will lead to effective response. Each organization pledged to continue to strengthen their medical care and response capabilities.