A-PAD Philippines Hosts International Symposium on Emergency Medical Services
On 17 September 2025, A-PAD Philippines convened its International Symposium on Emergency Medicine in Manila under the theme Resilience in Practice: EMS Collaboration and Multi-Sector Approach. The gathering brought together government agencies, health institutions, academia, civil society, and business representatives from across the Philippines, alongside international partners including the Embassy of Japan, Peace Winds Japan, and A-PAD International.
The program opened with remarks from A-PAD Philippines President Mr. Gilbert Albero. This was followed by a message from the Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Endo Kazuya, who highlighted A-PAD’s vital role in strengthening regional preparedness and underscored the value of international cooperation in building disaster resilience.
Country Director of A-PAD Sri Lanka and COO of A-PAD International, Mr. Firzan Hashim, also spoke at the event. He underscored the importance of localization in disaster response, noting that immediate action often comes from within communities – neighbors, volunteers, and barangay workers. He called for stronger local medical systems and multi-sector collaboration to ensure life-saving responses before external aid can reach affected areas.
The panel discussion brought together leading expertise in disaster medicine, emergency operations, public health, and humanitarian relief. Insights were shared on strengthening preparedness in non-crisis periods, managing resources effectively during emergencies, and the importance of inter-agency trust and coordination. Specialists from hospitals, disaster medicine committees, international rescue teams, and global health programs underscored the need for continuous training, cross-border cooperation, and building resilient medical systems that can adapt to diverse disaster scenarios.
The symposium not only showcased the strides made by A-PAD Philippines in advancing emergency medical systems but also provided a valuable platform for deepening collaboration across Asia. As A-PAD national platforms continue to exchange expertise, the collective goal remains clear – building stronger, more resilient communities prepared to face the increasing risks of disasters.
