The Philippines was one of the pioneer countries to embrace PEER from 1998. The country has institutionalized PEER courses as it continues to build capacities in the health sector, specifically the Hospital Preparedness for Emergencies (HOPE). 

Department of  Health (DOH)  Western Visayas Center for Health Development in Iloilo City spearheaded the country’s very first virtual HOPE Course for thirty hospital chiefs and medical directors on August 24-27, 2021, and August 31- September 3, 2021.  The course was led by its focal person and senior HOPE instructor, Dr. May Ann Soliva- Sta Lucia, demonstrating the impact of HOPE on the health personnel.

Senior HOPE instructors from provincial health offices, different private and government hospitals, and the Department of Health including two instructors from Nepal provided their technical expertise during the Course. Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, one of the original course developers of HOPE and currently serving as a Special Adviser at the National Task Force on COVID19 Philippines, gave an inspirational message to the participants and shared how the course benefited hospitals during the pandemic. He also shared how the HOPE was developed by Asian experts and implemented in more than 10 countries under PEER. The DOH WV CHD Regional Director, Dr. Adriano Suba-an emphasized in his opening message that hospital preparedness is very vital and crucial most especially in this time of the pandemic. He extended his appreciation to ADPC and the HOPE instructors for their invaluable support.

In his closing message, Mr. John Abo, Chief of Party of PEER from ADPC commended DOH and the dedication of the HOPE instructors for their strong commitment and resoluteness in keeping HOPE active in the Philippines since the country graduated from the PEER program in 2014. This demonstrates that HOPE institutionalization has evolved in the country with key partners like DOH taking ownership of HOPE together with advocates like Dr. Herbosa and support from senior instructors, added Mr. Abo. 

The participants reiterated that the HOPE course is informative, practical, and very relevant. They gave an excellent rating for the overall performance of the instructors because of the standard methodology and quality they exemplified in delivering the online training.

Cover Photo by FreePik.