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URL: https://www.facebook.com/share/akJQ3PH7QbSSuDz6/?mibextid=WC7FNe

TITLE: A Critical Analysis of the Philippine Public Health System

DATE PUBLISHED: February 12, 2024

AUTHOR: Life Without Rice Movement (Facebook Page)

KEY CONTENT:

This post underscores the persistent challenge of a critical shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in Mindanao. The revelation that only approximately one doctor serves around 40.68 thousand people highlights the stark reality of healthcare disparities across regions in the country. Discrepancies in healthcare access remain visible, particularly in regions like Region 11 and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). These regions face shortages of medical personnel and resources, exacerbating the already precarious healthcare situation.

This post is connected to the research topic by highlighting the stark reality of healthcare disparities within the region. Specifically, it emphasizes the startling statistic that only approximately one doctor serves around 40.68 thousand people in Mindanao, highlighting the immense strain on the healthcare system. Moreover, by mentioning the discrepancies in healthcare access across regions within Mindanao, the post highlights the localized nature of the shortage.

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URL:

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/30/22/philippines-short-of-almost-200000-health-workers-doh

TITLE: Philippines short of almost 200,000 health workers, says DOH

DATE PUBLISHED: September 30, 2022

AUTHOR: Raphael Bosano

KEY CONTENT:

The article reveals that the Philippines is experiencing a shortage of 200,000 healthcare workers. DOH reported that the country is short of 106,000 nurses. The workforce gap also encompasses other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, physical therapists, and dentists, with the total shortage at around 194,000.

Mindanao, being one of the major regions of the Philippines, is inevitably affected by this nationwide shortage. As such, it directly correlates with the research topic. With fewer healthcare professionals available, hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities in the region struggle to meet the healthcare needs of the population. The shortage of healthcare workers further widens this gap, making it even more difficult for residents of Mindanao, especially those in remote and underserved areas, to access essential healthcare services.

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Northern Mindanao building more hospitals

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 22 June)—Coming out from the COVID-19 pandemic, authorities in Northern Mindanao are building more hospitals to address the

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URL: https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/davao-villages-lack-medical-staff

TITLE: Davao villages lack medical staff

DATE PUBLISHED: June 11, 2018

AUTHOR: Karina V. Canedo

KEY CONTENT:

Due to the increasing population in Davao City, barangays are now experiencing a shortage of doctors, nurses, and midwives. Davao City Health Office (CHO) technical officer Dr. Julinda Acosta, in a media forum last week, said the city population has already reached around 1.7 million, and the manpower of the city has not increased in number since the 1990s. She further highlighted concerning statistics, such as Buhangin District having only one doctor serving 250,000 individuals, Toril District with one doctor for 85 barangays, and Talomo North, South, and Central each having one doctor for 150,000 residents.

This information directly relates to the research topic as it underscores the broader issue of inadequate healthcare staffing and resources within the region. The fact that the city's population has reached 1.7 million while the number of healthcare workers has remained stagnant since the 1990s highlights a long-standing problem that extends beyond Davao City to other areas in Mindanao. Additionally, the concerning statistics provided by Dr. Julinda Acosta, such as the disproportionate ratios of healthcare workers to residents in various districts, further emphasize the severity of the shortage and its impact on healthcare access and delivery in Mindanao.

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DUE to the increasing population in the Davao City, barangays here are now experiencing a shortage of doctors, nurses and midwives.

Davao City Health Office (CHO) technical officer Dr. Julinda Acosta, in a media forum last week, said the city population has already reached around 1.7 million and the manpower of the city has not increased in number since the 1990s.

She said the CHO is now asking for additional doctors, nurses and midwives, which barangays need most.

As of the moment, Acosta said one midwife handles three barangays and do visits in the assigned areas for health activities.

"May areas na hindi po siya makapunta dahil sa kanyang catchment areas," she said.

Acosta said while the additional manpower is being planned, the Department of Health is now helping the city cope with the shortage through the deployment of Health Human Resource (HRH) and the deployment of the Doctors to the barrios.

She said the city's doctor to patient ratio is one is to 50,000, which is twice or thrice their ideal number.

Acosta added that in Buhangin District, there is only one doctor catering to 250,000 persons; Toril District has one doctor for 85 barangays; and Talomo North, South, Central have one doctor for 150,000.

"So para maganda ang services, we need doctors talaga, one per 50,000 na ideal talaga and for the nurses one nurse per 20,000 population ang nangyari ngayon may isang nurse per 250,000," Acosta said.

She said the creation of more positions will cater to the shortage.

Another challenge the CHO is also facing right now is the migration of their trained and competent nurses to other countries for greener pastures.

"Last week may aalis for States, may aalis for Canada, ang dami-dami nilang aalis and these are trained nurses, matagal na sa atin. Magaling sila dahil trained sila at alam nila ang programa. They leave us kasi sila ang hinahanap ng other countries," she said.

Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Health chair Dr. Mary Joselle Villafuerte told SunStar Davao yesterday that CHO already made a proposal for the additional health personnel.

"There is already a proposal but I think they are waiting for the budget from the city. There are five new Urban Health Centers in the city. It really needs lots of health professionals," Villafuerte said.

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DUE to the increasing population in the Davao City, barangays here are now experiencing a shortage of doctors, nurses and midwives.Davao City Health Office (CHO

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URL: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/philippines-health-international-nurses-1.6764854

TITLE: 'Stop the bleeding,' Philippines health official says about international recruiting of nurses

DATE PUBLISHED: March 03, 2024

AUTHOR: Karen Pauls - CBC News

KEY CONTENT:

In a recent interview, Dr. Maria Rosario Vergeire, officer-in-charge of the Department of Health, emphasized that the Philippines faces a shortage of over 350,000 nurses, particularly evident in remote areas that lack access to healthcare. Dr. Vergeire questioned why it is consistently higher-income countries that actively recruit Filipino nurses. She advocated for a more equitable approach, suggesting that countries benefiting from Filipino nurses should engage in reciprocal arrangements to benefit the Philippines as well.

Dr. Vergeire's comments in the interview directly relate to the research topic as it has significant implications for healthcare delivery in Mindanao, particularly in remote areas with limited access to healthcare services. The disproportionate recruitment of Filipino nurses by higher-income countries exacerbates the shortage, leaving regions like Mindanao further underserved.

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'Stop the bleeding,' Philippines health official says about international recruiting of nurses | CBC News

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Government health officials say there's a shortage of 350,000 nurses in the Philippines. They, hospital administrators and nursing advocates are trying to find ways to make their own health-care system sustainable, even as international recruitment delegations come knocking.

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URL:

https://youtu.be/hsTXlpoFv3o?si=gjygaMX0mJJ8V66x

TITLE: Davao City private hospitals need more health workers for COVID-19 fight

DATE PUBLISHED: December 04, 2020

AUTHOR: ABS-CBN News

KEY CONTENT:

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, private hospitals in Davao City encountered a shortage of healthcare workers, which significantly affected their ability to provide adequate care. The ratio of doctors to patients, reported as 25:100, highlights the overwhelming demand for medical attention compared to the available healthcare workforce. As a result, healthcare professionals, including doctors, were compelled to work overtime to accommodate the surge in patients.

The challenges faced by private hospitals in Davao City during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, including a shortage of healthcare workers and the need for doctors to work overtime to meet the high patient demand, directly align with the research topic. This shortage of healthcare workers in Davao City's private hospitals reflects the broader issue of inadequate medical resources and healthcare professionals in Mindanao, exacerbating the region's already precarious healthcare situation. This not only compromises the ability of healthcare facilities to respond effectively to public health crises but also underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the underlying issues and strengthen the healthcare system in Mindanao.

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Davao City private hospitals need more health workers for COVID-19 fight | ABS-CBN News

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URL: https://youtu.be/3F1qTKPeft4?si=6HBbs_mQn2sKh497

TITLE: Some provinces look to Philippines to fix nursing shortage

AUTHOR: CBC News: The National

DATE PUBLISHED: March 2, 2023

KEY CONTENT:

As Canada recruits nurses from the Philippines to work abroad, the Philippines is experiencing a shortage. Health officials say that 40% of all Filipino nurses have left country or retired. Maria Rosario Vergeire stated that the Philippines has a shortage of more than 350,000 nurses.

This directly relates to the research topic as the departure of Filipino nurses to work abroad further strains the healthcare system in Mindanao. With a significant portion of the nursing workforce leaving the country, healthcare facilities in the region are left understaffed and unable to meet the healthcare needs of the local population. This shortage of nurses and other healthcare professionals compromises the quality and accessibility of healthcare services in Mindanao, particularly in rural and underserved areas where the need for healthcare workers is often greatest.

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Why Does Philippines, Top Exporter Of Nurses Face A Shortage At Home? | Undercover Asia

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URL: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/AzGE4vQDxy745ixH/?

TITLE: BREAK DOWN BARRIERS, ENSURE HEALTHCARE ACCESS FOR ALL

DATE PUBLISHED: December 02, 2023

AUTHOR: Angela Maguad

KEY CONTENT:

The advocacy poster highlights the plight of individuals residing in rural and isolated regions of Mindanao, who frequently experience a lack of access to healthcare services. Rural areas often suffer from neglect by the government, resulting in an unequal distribution of healthcare resources compared to urban areas. Consequently, rural communities are underserved, lacking adequate healthcare professionals, facilities, and resources. This exacerbates the difficulties residents face in obtaining essential medical care, further widening the gap in healthcare access between rural and urban areas.

This directly relates to the research topic of the critical shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in Mindanao. By highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in rural and isolated areas of Mindanao in accessing healthcare services due to neglect and inadequate distribution of resources, it underscores the broader issue of healthcare disparities within the region.

The lack of healthcare professionals, facilities, and resources further widens the gap in healthcare access between rural and urban areas of Mindanao. Addressing this critical shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in Mindanao is essential to ensure equitable access to healthcare services for all residents, regardless of their geographic location.

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8) PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE OR PROMOTIONAL VIDEO

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8) PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE OR PROMOTIONAL VIDEO

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URL: https://youtu.be/W_YOUAHHElQ?si=kc5n9l1mjX22I70i

TITLE: AdDUvocacy PSA: Aruga Rural-SDG 3

DATE PUBLISHED: December 12, 2023

AUTHOR: Gella Magi

KEY CONTENT:

The video highlights the significant challenges faced by residents of rural and far-flung areas in Mindanao in accessing quality healthcare services. These areas often experience shortages of basic healthcare resources and face difficulties in receiving timely medical attention. A key factor contributing to these challenges is the lack of support from the government towards healthcare initiatives in these regions. Without sufficient government support, healthcare facilities in rural and remote areas struggle to acquire necessary medical supplies, maintain infrastructure, and attract and retain healthcare professionals. As a result, residents in these areas are more likely to fall victim to the shortages of basic healthcare, leading to poorer health outcomes and exacerbating healthcare disparities between urban and rural communities.

This discussion directly aligns with the research topic of the critical shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in Mindanao. It emphasizes the widespread shortages of basic healthcare resources in rural and far-flung regions of the region, where residents face significant challenges in accessing quality healthcare services. Moreover, the lack of government support towards healthcare initiatives further compounds these difficulties, as healthcare facilities struggle to obtain essential medical resources and healthcare workers.

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URL: https://www.positivelyfilipino.com/magazine/up-close-and-personal-with-philippine-health-care?rq=healt hcare

TITLE: SIX FILIPINO YOUTH LEADERS ON THE NATION WE DESERVE

DATE PUBLISHED: April 14, 2014

AUTHOR: Team GRID

KEY CONTENT:

Dr. Rolanisah A. Dipatuan-Dimaporo, head of the infectious disease cluster at MOH-BARMM, expressed her concern about patients waiting in the hallways of their healthcare facilities, indicating that the facilities are operating beyond full capacity. She emphasized the importance of having a robust healthcare system capable of handling crises effectively, suggesting that with a better-prepared healthcare system, the economic impact of the pandemic could have been minimized. Dr. Dipatuan-Dimaporo stressed the role of hospitals as the last line of defense in the healthcare system rather than being placed on the frontline.

Dr. Dipatuan-Dimaporo's remarks underscore the critical link to the research topic. Her concern about patients waiting in hallways indicates a strain on healthcare facilities, likely exacerbated by a shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in the region. By emphasizing the importance of a robust healthcare system capable of handling crises effectively, Dr. Dipatuan-Dimaporo highlights the urgent need to address the shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in Mindanao.

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The next year marks a crucial time for the Filipino people, with the upcoming national elections setting the stage for the kind of future we want for our nation. As we take stock of where the country is at right now-from the state of the ongoing health crisis to the looming threat of climate change-we ask six young leaders in different fields about their vision for a better Philippines, and what we can all do to build back stronger.

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‍

Anton Siy

Chief Transport Planner, Pasig City

I'd like to see road safety emphasized a lot more as a public health issue. There are two main progress indicators for that: first, more streets with an implemented 30 km/hr speed limit (or lower in school zones). Speed limits are one of the key tools societies have to make streets safe -when streets become slower, they become safer. Ironically, when you have slower streets, [traffic] goes faster: more people use public transport, which improves travel time. You also have more people walking and cycling, making it less noisy and polluted.

Second, I'd like to see a lot more accessibility, meaning wider sidewalks with more ramps to help get more people [with] movement-related disabilities out and about. Wider bike lanes also play a big role here; more interconnected bike lanes around Metro Manila and around the Philippines [will get] more people with different physical ability levels [to] cycle.

The chief problem of transport systems everywhere is the type of development that's dominated by vehicles.

When you develop cities in a pattern that is convenient [only for] motor vehicles, you favor a minority of road users and are really designing it in an unsustainable way. You also have to use a lot more land and resources... you're basically living on borrowed time, because after a while you will run out of resources, [and] you'll have to take more from a planet that isn't making more.

Building an inclusive mobility system, where you have more people being able to go around while being lighter on resources and pollution and social costs, for me is the only way you can develop a city that can go on to sustain life for generations to come.
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Dr. Rolanisah A. Dipatuan-Dimaporo

Head, Infectious Disease Cluster (MOH-BARMM)

First of all, I don't wish to see any more patients [waiting] in the hallways of our healthcare facilities. When we see that, it means our facilities are over full capacity, and we don't want to see patients not receiving the full intensive care they're supposed to be given. Right now in the Bangsamoro Region, we're lucky to have legislators already filing bills to upgrade our government hospitals. Hopefully, we see [the results of that] in a couple of years, and I hope other regions will follow suit in upgrading and improving their healthcare facilities.

Second, this may sound idealistic, but we want to see happier healthcare workers. Yes, we want patients to be cared for properly, but our healthcare workers' well-being shouldn't be neglected either-we want them to be at their best when providing service to patients.

Another sign [of progress] is that healthcare workers aren't leaving the country to seek jobs elsewhere. [To achieve this,] they should be paid accordingly, whether in a private or government facility. As a doctor myself, we're also pushing for reasonable working hours so we don't burn out. I know a lot of healthcare workers in other areas who are really overworked, and many of them have not been given any hazard pay -although here in our region, we have. I really hope we become an example so that healthcare workers will feel valued and feel like they're being taken care of by the government.

Here in the Bangsamoro Region, we're lucky to have legislators already filing bills to upgrade our government hospitals.

If only we had a better healthcare system when the pandemic hit, and were able to handle the situation more properly in its early stages, I don't think our economy would've taken [as huge a] hit. If the healthcare system works as it's supposed to, our hospitals should be the last line-not the frontline.

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Cherrie Atilano

President and Founding Farmer, AGREA

[I'd like to see us support] more women and youth in the agriculture sector. [To do that,] we need to develop policies and programs [that allow] them to thrive not just in farming but also doing business-using a comprehensive food systems approach where we make producers accountable to consumers, and vice versa.

The Philippine [agricultural] supply chain is so broken; it's why we have so many [foreign] traders coming in. We [need to improve] our infrastructure for the supply chain-tracking, logistics, post-harvest processing-and increase our intervention in terms of value chain creation. If we harvest tomatoes, hindi pwedeng itatapon lang sila sa gilid ng kalsada 'pag nabubulok; pwedeng gawing pasta sauce or dried tomatoes.

We also need to strengthen the connection between our food producers and the markets; [this will] encourage local restaurants to source ingredients locally, and manufacturers to lessen imports from other countries. For example: we import monggo from China and Vietnam. But if we encourage [and equip] our rice farmers to grow monggo after harvesting rice in the dry season, they'd not only have another layer of income, but would also be rehabilitating their soil since monggo is a natural soil conditioner.

Agriculture is [still] a male-dominated industry, so there are also a lot of gender issues. Women farmers typically earn Php 43 less than a male farmer's daily wage in a plantation. Land titling is also a challenge; women in farming communities can't make decisions on their land since it's usually under their husbands' names. There's also the problem with age: The average age of a Filipino farmer is between 57 to 60; the average age of the Filipino population is 23. If we don't encourage young people to get into agriculture, what will happen to us in 10 years' time?

We need to create a more enabling environment for the agriculture sector to thrive, but to do that, there has to be a priority in infrastructure and policy, especially in local governments. The agricultural sector will really [shape] how we rise up after this pandemic. To build back our economy, we need to build our human capital.

‍

Jaton Zulueta

Founder and Executive Director, AHA Learning Center

I'd like to see more of the private sector investing in social capital and capacity-building for long-term projects in low-income communities. Within the last two years, we've taken maybe five years back in terms of providing quality education services to those who need it the most; we have to think of the next five years not just as a means to catch up, but to truly focus on how learning can be more equitable, engaging, and inclusive.

These words should be more than just catch phrases; it's important we understand that if the wide-scale, international education assessments show [the Philippines] lagging behind, that doesn't only affect poor public schools, or public schools in general. It affects everyone. These will determine the level of talent [our country has], and how far and how much we can build.

When you improve the quality of education in areas with concentrated poverty, you not only create a skilled work force, you also create more [opportunities for] collaboration to [find solutions to] the problems of our country. Very few of us are given opportunities to be educated, to lead. There are few of us that are on the ground or are in positions of power; oftentimes communities with concentrated poverty don't have a seat at the table, because they don't have the language, too.

It's a very bleak situation, and it won't get any better unless the people who call themselves influencers actually consider and include [the needs of] most of the country when they're talking about what's best for the country.

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Dr. Deo Onda

Associate Professor & Deputy Director for Research, UP MSI

To do marine scientific research in the Philippines, we need [to increase] our capacity in terms of people, assets, and infrastructure. Right now, there are only around 20 oceanographers in the Philippines-talking about a country that's made up of 82 percent water, I think that's a very small ratio. [We need to find ways to] get more people, especially the younger generation, to take up MS and PhD programs in science; and get more Filipino scientist trained abroad to actually come back, teach here, and [help] the country. I also [hope to see] more regularized career positions for these scientists, [since] most of the researchers we have right now are contractual.

As a maritime country, the Philippines needs to start gearing up for a blue economy.

In terms of assets-within UP specifically, we only have one research vessel, so if we want to study the entire maritime region of the country, we need more. There's this big program in the Marine Science Institute (MSI) called Upgrade CIA, and one of the projects that I'm leading is the establishment of the national academic research fleet. Right now, we're acquiring more research vessels, but we're trying to increase that number to five: one for northeast Philippines, one in Visayas, one in Mindanao, and two in the West Philippine Sea because it's a legacy area. But these vessels are old and refurbished; what I want to see in the next few years is for the Philippines to actually invest in new, high-tech, advanced research vessels, not only for ocean research but for deep sea research, too.

Not all research happens at sea, [so] we should also invest in infrastructures on land. There are efforts to establish a marine scientific research station in Pag-asa Island (in the West Philippine Sea), [whereas] China has already established three operational research laboratories in their illegally claimed areas. Hopefully, we can come up with more research stations not just in Pag-asa, but all over the country.

The Philippines has a lot of deep sea environments, possibly [with] resources that we don't know how to utilize because we don't know where they're located. Marine scientific research allows you to actually know where, what, and how to utilize those resources, and understand how the environment is changing. Looking forward, we want policies that are driven by facts and are actually rooted in science. We will never be able to [do that] unless we increase our capacity for research.

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Mitzi Jonelle Tan

Lead Convener, Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines

I'd definitely like to see a change in the way we handle disasters. The Philippines has a lot of climate change and disaster risk management policies, but the implementation [is always lacking]. Every time may bagyo, binabaha. It's not something we should just accept, it's something we need to change-and that means we need to support our scientists and engineers [so they can] research and create [local] infrastructure that can adapt to the impacts of the climate crisis.

Aside from adaptation, there's also mitigation: protecting the existing forests that we have and making sure we don't [produce] more carbon dioxide emissions. We have a coal fire and power plant moratorium, but it still has a lot of exceptions. There's also a climate change bill that's being discussed, [but] I'm critical of it because of how our previous climate polices have been implemented.

The Philippines is the fourth-most vulnerable country in the world to the climate crisis; we've had the highest number of extreme weather events in the last 20 years. It's so clear that the climate crisis is real. We're facing it, and it's only going to get worse in the next [few] years. If we want the nation to build-to exist-we have to start now. And not just through policy, [but also] through our government demanding countries in the Global North to drastically cut down their emissions. To do that, we also have to say no to [these countries] extracting natural resources here in the Philippines.

[The youth] cannot wait until we are the ones in power anymore. We need to demand that the leaders of today act now, because it is our future that's at stake here. We need to vote for leaders that really prioritize people and planet, not profit.

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The Nation We Deserve - Six Filipino Youth Leaders on a Better Philippines

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What kind of future do you envision for the Philippines? We ask six young Filipino leaders about their dreams for the nation, and the steps needed to get there.

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URL: https://blogs.worldbank.org/eastasiapacific/advancing-universal-health-coverage-bangsamoro-region-philippines

TITLE: Advancing Universal Health Coverage in the Bangsamoro Region of the Philippines

DATE PUBLISHED: April 08, 2021

AUTHOR: Robert Oelrichs and Maria Vida Gomez

KEY CONTENT:

The blog discusses the significant challenges in laying the foundation for Universal Health Coverage (UHC), particularly in impoverished, remote, and conflict-affected areas such as the Philippine Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Ensuring equal access to healthcare services poses an extraordinary challenge for BARMM due to prevailing poverty and a fragile political and security environment. Despite efforts, the region struggles with the delivery of high-quality health services, with a substantial portion of health expenditures allocated to curative care rather than preventive care at primary facilities. Moreover, a 2017 World Bank assessment revealed an overall shortage and unequal distribution of rural health units across the region, leaving some communities with limited or no access to essential primary care services. The lack of healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and midwives, alongside inadequate basic amenities like electricity, communication equipment, and internet-enabled computers, further hampers health service provision in BARMM.

The blog's discussion directly relates to the research topic as it highlights the formidable obstacles faced by regions like BARMM in ensuring equitable access to healthcare services, primarily due to a lack of essential medical resources and healthcare professionals. The shortage of doctors, nurses, and midwives, coupled with insufficient basic amenities and a disproportionate allocation of health expenditures towards curative rather than preventive care, further exacerbates the region's healthcare challenges. Additionally, the unequal distribution of rural health units underscores the uneven access to primary care services within BARMM, leaving some communities underserved or entirely without essential healthcare facilities.

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Advancing Universal Health Coverage in the Bangsamoro Region of the Philippines

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Laying the foundation for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a difficult task for any country, and it is infinitely more challenging in poor, remote and conflict-torn areas such as the Philippine Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

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URL: https://youtu.be/MDcN2guaIic?si=UufkDax_AdN6ZPtc

TITLE: BBM VLOG #125: Philippine Healthcare System | Bongbong Marcos

DATE PUBLISHED: August 22, 2020

AUTHOR: Bongbong Marcos

KEY CONTENT:

Bongbong Marcos' vlog highlights the need for human resources in the Philippines' healthcare sector. He mentioned that the country has plenty of medical professionals. However, he admitted to the lack of support given to them. As a result, most of our doctors and nurses prefer going abroad, leaving the country with insufficient healthcare workers. Additionally, he mentioned the lack of availability of medical products. This was especially observed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, wherein the country lacked PPEs, test kits, and other medical supplies.

His acknowledgment of the abundance of medical professionals in the Philippines but the lack of support given to them underscores one of the root causes of the shortage of healthcare workers in Mindanao, thus showing a correlation to the research topic. The inadequate support provided to healthcare professionals, including issues such as low wages, poor working conditions, and limited career advancement opportunities, contributes to the significant number of doctors and nurses opting to work abroad. This phenomenon aggravates the shortage of healthcare workers in Mindanao, as many professionals from the region seek better opportunities overseas, leaving local healthcare facilities understaffed and ill-equipped to meet the needs of the population. Furthermore, Marcos' mention of the lack of availability of medical products, particularly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights another aspect of the critical shortage of medical resources in Mindanao. The insufficient supply of essential medical supplies further shows the strains of the already limited healthcare resources in the region.

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BBM VLOG #125: Philippine Healthcare System | Bongbong Marcos

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URL: https://up.edu.ph/estimating-local-healthcare-capacity-to-deal-with-covid-19-case-surge-analysis-and-recommendations/

TITLE: Estimating Local Healthcare Capacity to Deal with COVID-19 Case Surge: Analysis and Recommendations

DATE PUBLISHED: April 20, 2020

AUTHOR: UP COVID-19 Pandemic Response Team

KEY CONTENT:

The table shows that in the Philippines, the average ratio of doctors to population stands at 3.7 doctors per 10,000 people, which falls short of the World Health Organization's recommended ratio of 1 doctor per 1,000 individuals (equivalent to 10 doctors per 10,000). Notably, there exists a significant disparity in doctor-to-population ratios across different regions of the country. As seen in the table, the ratio is 10 doctors per 10,000 in the National Capital Region (NCR), while in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), it drops to a mere 0.8 doctors per 10,000. These figures underscore the persistent shortage of healthcare workers in certain regions of Mindanao, indicating inadequate access to healthcare services in those areas.

The data presented in the table directly correlates with the research topic as it shows the significant disparity in doctor-to-population ratios across different regions of the Philippines, particularly the notable shortage in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), highlights the uneven distribution of healthcare workers in Mindanao. The figures underscore the persistent challenges faced by certain regions in Mindanao in accessing adequate healthcare services due to the shortage of medical professionals. The low doctor-to-population ratio in BARMM underscores the urgent need to address the shortage of healthcare workers in Mindanao to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare services for all residents of the region.

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URL: https://www.pids.gov.ph/details/news/in-the-news/healthcare-disparity-seen-in-mindanao-pids

TITLE: Healthcare disparity seen in Mindanao—PIDS

DATE PUBLISHED: November 11, 2023

AUTHOR: Xander Dave Ceballos

KEY CONTENT:

According to researchers from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), there is an evident gap in healthcare accessibility between Mindanao and other regions in the Philippines. They noted that hospitals in Metro Manila and the Visayas tend to have higher bed densities in comparison to Mindanao and other parts of Luzon, where bed densities are notably lower. Moreover, disparities in hospital bed density within Mindanao itself are apparent, with numerous provinces having less than one bed per 1,000 population.

The findings from the PIDS directly relate to the research topic as they underscore the disparity in healthcare resource distribution across regions. Within Mindanao itself, the presence of provinces with less than one bed per 1,000 population highlights the inadequate availability of medical resources in the region. This disparity in resources further exacerbates the existing healthcare inequalities within Mindanao, emphasizing the urgent need for interventions to address the shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in the region.

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14) NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION OR ACADEMIC INSTITUTION ARTICLE

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14) NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION OR ACADEMIC INSTITUTION ARTICLE

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URL: https://ideasforpeace.org/content/human-security-indigenous-people-in-mindanao-challenges/

TITLE: THE HUMAN SECURITY OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN MINDANAO: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

DATE PUBLISHED: November 4, 2020

AUTHOR: Johnson K. Badawi

KEY CONTENT:

Indigenous Peoples constitute 12-17% of the Philippines' total population, with approximately 61% residing in Mindanao. These communities face significant challenges related to meeting basic needs, including access to essential infrastructure and social services. Many Indigenous Peoples, particularly Lumads, inhabit Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) characterized by marginalization, physical and socio-economic isolation, and high poverty rates. According to the Department of Health, GIDAs encompass communities separated from mainstream society due to factors such as distance, weather conditions, and transportation difficulties. Consequently, public healthcare services for Indigenous Peoples in Mindanao are often substandard, as healthcare facilities in these areas lack sufficient resources and healthcare workers.

This directly aligns with the research topic, underscoring the insufficiency of healthcare resources and personnel in these communities, leading to substandard healthcare services. As a result, public healthcare services for Indigenous Peoples in Mindanao remain inadequate, highlighting the critical shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in the region.

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Author: Johnson K. Badawi

Translated into Spanish by Silvana Gordillo González

Introduction

The discourse and practice of human security have garnered much attention over the past years. This novel concept has shifted the way we look at security-from a state-centered focus to a more holistic understanding of security that puts a premium on humans and humanity (Gasper, 2006).

With its pillars on protection and empowerment, human security emphasizes a people-centered principle that highlights inclusion and participation in its approach (UNTFHS, 2016). While this has been practiced and documented by international organizations and donor governments that advocate for human security (Hernandez, Kim, Mine, & Xiao, 2018), there are still gaps in fulfilling the promise of inclusion, especially for vulnerable minority communities. This is especially true with the case of Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

Currently, there is scant literature that links human security and Indigenous Peoples. The documented practice of human security for Indigenous Peoples has also been limited. This is of primary relevance considering the massive threat of globalization and modernization to the overall security of these vulnerable groups (Allen, 2006; Nathan, Kelkar, & Walter, 2004). Hence, this article purports to extend the inclusive rhetoric on human security by investigating the plight of Indigenous People in Mindanao and exploring how to integrate human security in interventions. The background of the case will be explained in detail. This will be followed by an examination of the challenges of IPs vis-à-vis the freedom from fear, want, and to live in dignity. Finally, the prospects of applying the human security approach will be explored.

Human Security and Lumads in Mindanao

Human security as a complementary approach to the traditional understanding of security has gained considerable prominence at the international level (Gazizullin, 2016). The United Nations (UN) played an important role in its conceptual development, advocacy, legitimation and codification, and implementation (MacFarlane, 2014). Since the 1994 Human Development Report published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), human security as a concept was formally introduced to the international community.

This report generally defined human security as the "freedom from fear" or direct physical violence, and "freedom from want" or indirect and non-physical or structural violence (Commission on Human Security, 2003). Particularly, it has 7 main areas which include economy, food, health, environment, community, and politics. In 2003, a UN report emphasized the purpose of human security: to protect the vital core of all human lives in ways that enhance human freedoms and human fulfillment. Two years later, Kofi Annan incorporated the "freedom to live in dignity" as one of the main tenets of human security (Annan, 2005). While this concept is not entirely new, it paved the way to a more formalized holistic security that prioritizes life and humanity.

Despite the ideal framing of security associated with this new concept, human security is not without challenges (Muguruza, 2007). One of the major obstacles is mainstreaming this approach with Indigenous Peoples who are deprived of the three freedoms advocated by human security. This gap is evident in the lived experiences of IPs in Mindanao, Philippines.

The Indigenous Peoples comprised 12-17% of the total population of the Philippines. Of these numbers, 61% of them can be found in Mindanao (National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, 2009). Together with the Moros and the Christian, they are part of the tripartite group in Mindanao. They make up 12-13 million of the population. In total there are about 18 Lumad groups which include the Subanen, B'laan, Mandaya, Higaonon, Banwaon, Talaandig, Ubo, Manobo, T'boli, Tiruray, Bagobo, Tagakaolo, Dibabawon, Mangaungan, and Mansaka (La Vina, 2015).

These IPs in Mindanao are culturally and collectively referred to as "Lumad" which is a local Cebuano term that means 'born of the earth, 'homegrown, or 'indigenous' (Gloria & Magpayo, 1997). This name appropriately describes these vulnerable groups; they are the original inhabitants of the island. They existed before colonial times. Lumads are largely animistic ethnic minorities who retained their way of beliefs and traditions (Rodil B. , 1993). Compared to their ethnolinguistic Moro counterparts, they kept their indigenous practices and resisted the conversion to Islam or Christianity.

The history of Mindanao is marked by a widespread wave of local migration. The arrival of settlers had encroached Lumads' territories and displaced them from lowland to highland. This local movement coupled with the Spanish and American colonization resulted in their forced refuge in remote locations such as the mountainsides. With the amicable attitude of Lumads to outsiders and their initial suppression of grievance, it permitted the continuous cycle of encroachment and displacement.

Although this is generally true among Lumads in Mindanao, the situation of IPs in Muslim Mindanao is especially interesting. Coronel-Ferrer (2012) noted the significant population of Lumads in the Muslim Mindanao region, most of them belong to the Teduray group. The Moro demand for self-determination and greater autonomy had sidelined the Lumads who have an equally valid claim of aboriginality and ownership of ancestral domains. Overall, they are adversely affected by various human security challenges associated with local conflicts.

Challenges to 'Freedoms' among Lumads

At the core of human security is the achievement of freedom from fear, want, and to live in dignity (UNTFHS, 2016). Among the Lumads, the pursuit of these freedoms is a big challenge due to their vulnerable condition. Unlike many Filipinos, the manner they experience insecurities is magnified. For instance, Lumads are unfairly caught between the conflict of the government and armed communist groups (Fonbuena, 2015; Ferrie, 2016). This is particularly prevalent with Lumads in the Northern and Davao region. They are red-tagged or associated with coddling and recruiting for the New People's Army (Gamil, 2017). As a result, human rights violations are widespread (Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights, 2017). This includes illegal arrests and detentions. McClure (2018) reported that the targeting and murder of tribe leaders are also common. Subsequently, militarization is increased which triggers the cycle of violence.

Land-grabbing and extraction have impacted the lands and lives of Lumads. The sprout of mining and other companies that are obsessed with natural resources have exploited and damaged livelihoods. Although environmental activists and defenders have resisted the continuous interests of private companies, this has proven to be futile and dangerous (Aspinwall, 2019; Simbulan, 2016). Many of them faced the guns of private armed groups. Combined with the active militarization and state repression, this has resulted in forced displacement (Molintas, 2006). Lumads are pushed to evacuate their territories and live temporarily in evacuation shelters in dire conditions. Since they are not used to the lifestyle in big cities, their overall welfare is affected.

Likewise, this is the case of Lumads in the Muslim Mindanao area. They are victims of military skirmishes between local clans and splinter groups of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). A recent exchange of fire in South Upi, Maguindanao caused the displacement of over 900 families (Arguillas, 2020). Relatedly, the preponderance of land-grabbing and harassment has caused fear of Lumad groups. This latest evacuation of Lumads is especially pressing considering the current threat of COVID-19. With the unsatisfactory health condition and delivery of public health services for Lumads, they are put in a disadvantaged position.

The challenges related to freedom of want are also rampant. In general, there is evident inadequacy of basic infrastructures and delivery of social service. A significant number of Lumads live in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas or GIDAs which according to the Department of Health are "communities with marginalized population physically and socio-economically separated from the mainstream society or those communities that are isolated due to distance, weather conditions, and transportation difficulties and with high poverty incidence and the presence of vulnerable sector, communities that are in or recovering from a situation of crisis or armed conflict".

Due to the constant displacement (and structural inequalities), the livelihoods and development of Lumads are negatively affected. In a report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (2003), they found that even before displacement, a high incidence of poverty, restricted access to livelihoods, and inadequate standards of living were already present. Conflict and its consequent displacement magnified the loss and damage of properties and life. Agriculture is the most common source of income but because of frequent movement, they are pressured to leave their fertile lands.

Displacement has also post-impact on the food security of Lumads who are not compensated well after returning to their communities. Regarding water access, only 23% have access to level III sources which is the best source of water (Asian Development Bank, 2002). This means that the majority of the household is dependent on private wells and rainwater collectors. This development gap has a complex connection with the deteriorating health of Lumads. Manalac (2016) reported the inferior state of public healthcare among Indigenous Peoples. Certainly, there are clear problems-inaccessible basic health services, weak and culturally insensitive health governance, and prevalent malnutrition.

The geographical isolation of Lumads combined with the high incidence of poverty constrains the quality of education the children and youth. In fact, compared with their counterparts in Luzon and Visayas, 41% of Lumad children are out of school and received compromised quality of education. Those schools that are operational are confronted with the problem of insufficient teacher and learning facilities. Some Lumads teenage students who attend secondary schools are burdened to walk several kilometers. Drop-out rates are also high due to poor performance brought about by a lack of proper nutrition and school materials. With displacement, school disruptions, and an insecure environment, the impact on education is even worst. The red-tagging of communities also includes the learning spaces of children. As a result, the government through the Department of Education had demanded the closures of schools allegedly associated with the NPAs (Palo, 2019).

All the insecurities explained earlier are contributory factors that threaten the freedom of Lumads to live in dignity. But in addition to these, the salience of discrimination and exclusion of Lumads has impacted their sense of individual and collective esteem. Incidence of these social negative treatments have been reported (TEBTEBBA, n.d.).

For instance, bullying and discrimination in schools have been common among Lumad children and teenagers. This is accordingly one of the reasons why the rate of drop-out is high (Daley, 2014). Some Lumad groups have distinct physical features and ways of dressing which make them stand out in public. Consequently, their "unusual" image is easily identified and discriminated against.

Relatedly, the notorious land-grabbing of their ancestral domain results in cultural encroachment. Lumads have a strong identity connection with their geographical locations (Ballaran, 2018; Paredes, 2016). Their way of living and the preservation of heritage is largely affected by the actions of the government and private corporations (Molintas, 2006). These gaps in achieving freedom from fear, want, to live in dignity are interconnected in an intricate web. Therefore, addressing them calls for a profound rethinking of human security approaches that consider these complexes and cultural sensitivities.

Prospects for Mainstreaming Human Security

The next urgent point of discussion is centered on the application of the human security approach, its mainstreaming, and the existing international, regional, and national mechanisms that can be invoked to facilitate the discourse and practice of human security for the Lumad communities.

While the UNDP Human Development Report 1994 is commonly credited for the introduction of human security to the global arena, it is the effort of the Commission of Human Security that elaborated on the approaches for its adoption. The Human Security Now (2003) report detailed policy suggestions that national governments can enact. A more recent document (Human Security Handbook 2016) by the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security alluded to the integration of human security to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other global priorities.

This comprehensive handbook purports to provide a "step-by-step analytical process for the design and implementation of human security initiatives and guides in assessing the added value of the approach". The potential to mainstream human security among Lumads will revolve around these recommendations. Special focus will be rendered to the protection and empowerment dimensions.

The protection approach is a top-down process that upholds basic rights and freedoms. This includes the protection from threats such as violent conflict, disease, terrorism, and financial crisis, among others (Commission on Human Security, 2003). While these are all relevant, armed conflict with its accompanying forced displacement has marked urgency in the case of Lumads. To address this, the government must incorporate the human security agenda and concentrate on human rights protection (UNTFHS, 2016). This implies that vulnerable communities' fundamental rights must be safeguarded by all means possible that deviate from the militaristic response.

The state is incapacitated to fully protect Lumads; oftentimes, state institutions are the guilty perpetrator of direct, structural, and cultural violence. Although the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) is far-fetched in this case, its protection aspect can have a potential influence. Pitsuwan et al (2014) prompted the discourse of mainstreaming R2P in the ASEAN that is consistent with international law and existing mechanisms and instruments of ASEAN.

On the national level, the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) is compatible with human security especially the promotion of social justice and human rights. This element guarantees the indigenous peoples' right to enjoy life, equal protection, and right peace and social justice, among others. Particularly, Section 22 of IPRA stated the right of indigenous peoples to special protection and security during armed conflict. This act must be revisited and upheld to fulfill the promise of the State to establish protective mechanisms in accordance with international standards. Non-government organizations and initiatives have started programs for humanitarian response and protection. For example, the Protection Cluster Philippines had been active in responding to the internally displaced people including the IPs. In the Muslim Mindanao area, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao- Rapid Emergency and Disaster Response (BARMM-READi) had provided relief aid assistance to displaced Lumads (Arguillas, 2020).

Of primary salience, the Human Security Now report emphasized the need for the government to prioritize conflict prevention and peacebuilding as important protection pillars. The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) with their previous and ongoing programs can play a major role. Former Secretary Dureza had been vocal on the strategic role of Lumads in peacebuilding (OPAPP, 2018).

Dialogues among the government and Lumads can open spaces for consultation and substantial participation. In Muslim Mindanao, the Ministry of Public Order and Safety had commenced its capacity development programs for conflict prevention and resolution (Sunstar Zamboanga, 2020). The Ministry can extend its scope by including the issues that affect the Lumads. Most importantly, the government can explore the traditional conflict resolution strategies of Lumads. For instance, the Teduray and Higaonon tribes have documented manners of solving conflict (Rodil R. B., 2020; Ragandang, 2017). However, these local practices should not be romanticized. These should be carefully considered for integration to the established style of peacemaking of the national government.

A holistic human security mainstreaming necessitates a bottom-up approach that mobilizes grassroots individuals and institutions. Hence, to mutually reinforce protection, the empowerment of Lumad communities must be integrated. The Commission on Human Security (2003) described empowerment as the people's ability to act on their behalf.

While protection is mainly spearheaded by top-level formal institutions, empowerment recognizes the importance of developing the strength and potential of grassroots communities. This is not to say, however, that external and top-level institutions should not be involved. In reality, they are key actors who will support the people and provide spaces for Lumad transformation. For instance, the United Nations Development Program has notable visibility in the empowerment of Indigenous Peoples. They have implemented capacity development programs for government agencies, civil societies, and tribe leaders among IPs (UNDP, Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines, 2010).

The empowerment approach is consistent with UNDP's recent move to substantially include more local-level components that are focused on Lumad issues such as protection of ancestral lands, good governances, and indigenous peacebuilding mechanisms (UNDP, 2010).

International organizations and donor governments can also extend their empowerment interventions to benefit the Lumads. For example, while the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have both been active major donors in Mindanao, they can include the issues of Lumads in their program agenda. Ishikawa and Quilala (2019) posited how the empowerment pillar was possible and instrumental in the case of the Mindanao peace process.

Going back to the IPRA, this law has requirements for the formulation of a development plan that can be incorporated into the barangay, municipal, or regional level through the local councils. The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) can be further supported to maximize its various programs for the participation of Lumads. Moreover, local civil society groups and non-government organizations that work for Lumads can be given more resources to continue their grassroots works. For instance, the local organization, Panaghiusa Alang sa Kaugalingan ug Kalingkawasan Inc (PASAKK), in Agusan del Sur has notable bottom-up programs for the Manobo people. Other NGOs and CSOs can be mobilized to adopt a more empowerment-driven framework that highlights the strength and agency of Lumads. Indeed, there are numerous opportunities and entry points that can be explored to mainstream the protection and empowerment of Lumads in Mindanao.

Conclusion

The plight of Indigenous Peoples is a global source of concern. The case of Lumads in Mindanao demonstrates the systemic and structural challenges of Indigenous Peoples. The constant displacement caused by armed violence has greatly affected their holistic welfare. It is thus necessary to overcome these obstacles and support the peace and development of the Lumads.

Human security is a potential approach that can be applied to resolve these problems. With its protection and empowerment pillars, it will facilitate a balance of top-level assistance and grassroots action. Its mainstreaming has high possibilities considering the existing mechanisms at international, regional, national, and local levels.

Although this article does not provide an exhaustive investigation of human security challenges and prospects for Lumads, it sends an invitation for further discussion to include and engage Lumads in creating solutions for their problems. Atienza (2015) noted the need to clarify and contextualize human security in the Philippine local context. This article responds to that call by examining the challenge and prospect of human security in one of the marginalized groups in the Philippines. Nevertheless, the inclusive idealism of human security is more than lip service but a solid actionable framework that can bring positive transformation to the lives of Lumads in Mindanao.

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Author's Bio:

Johnson Badawi is a graduate student taking his dual degree program on Political Science major in Global Politics and International Peace Studies at the Ateneo de Manila University and University for Peace, respectively. He has worked for humanitarian and conflict transformations projects in Southern Philippines. John has served in different capacities for projects by the US Embassy in the Philippines, UN Women, and the World Health Organization, among others. His research interests are focused on post-conflict trauma, gender and peacebuilding, conflict transformation, and infrastructures for peace

*Please note that all opinions expressed in this article are those of the author only and do not represent the official position of the University for Peace

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The Human Security of Indigenous People in Mindanao: Challenges and Prospects

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The discourse and practice of human security have garnered much attention over the past years. This novel concept has shifted the way we look at security-from a state-centered focus to a more holistic understanding of security that puts a premium on humans and humanity (Gasper, 2006).

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URL: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5v4Pbv9Tdeq2TCnuxpXycz?si=96f9e4c361774393

TITLE: Philippine Healthcare System

AUTHOR: The Young Health Aspirant Talks

DATE PUBLISHED: February 2022

KEY CONTENT:

The podcast delves into the condition of the healthcare system in the Philippines, shedding light on the obstacles and constraints encountered by the impoverished and marginalized sectors in obtaining healthcare services. Guest speaker Hannah Bagadiong discusses the government's endeavors to tackle this issue and enhance the healthcare system, especially in response to the World Health Organization's (WHO) classification of the Philippine Healthcare System as fragmented. Despite these efforts, the inadequacy of healthcare resources and personnel in rural areas, including Mindanao, persists, demonstrating that existing interventions fall short of effectively addressing the healthcare challenges faced by these regions.

The podcast's exploration of the Philippine healthcare system and its challenges directly relates to the research topic as it highlights the barriers faced by impoverished and marginalized populations in accessing healthcare services, including Mindanao. This reveals the ongoing struggle to adequately address the healthcare needs of underserved regions, emphasizing the urgent need for interventions to mitigate the critical shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in Mindanao and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents.

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Listen to this episode from The Young Health Aspirants Talks on Spotify. A pleasant day, everyone! The Young Health Aspirants team has created a podcast that will facilitate important talks related to the country's healthcare situations. Today, the executive director of the Young Health Aspirants, 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗮𝗵 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗴, gets to tackle the issues about and within the Philippine Healthcare System.

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URL: https://youtu.be/3F1qTKPeft4?si=6HBbs_mQn2sKh497

TITLE: Why Does Philippines, Top Exporter Of Nurses Face A Shortage At Home? | Undercover Asia

AUTHOR: CNA Insider

DATE PUBLISHED: April 17, 2021

KEY CONTENT:

The documentary revealed that because of inadequate compensation, many Filipino nurses experience burnout and opt to seek employment opportunities abroad. In the Davao Region, the number of nurse-cooperative members per province varies from 30 to 60. Specifically, Davao Oriental has 65 registered nurses, Davao City has 23, and both Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley have 30 each. However, even with these numbers, hospitals in the region continue to face challenges in accommodating the high volume of patients they receive daily.

The documentary's exploration of the challenges faced by Filipino nurses directly relates to the research topic. The revelation that many nurses are compelled to seek employment opportunities abroad exacerbates the shortage of healthcare workers in the region. Despite the presence of nurse-cooperative members in various provinces of the Davao Region, the fact that hospitals continue to struggle to accommodate the high volume of patients they receive daily shows the severity of the issue. This emphasizes the ongoing issue of insufficient healthcare workforce and resources in Mindanao, underscoring the need for interventions to address the critical shortage of medical personnel in the region and ensure adequate healthcare services for its residents.

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Why Does Philippines, Top Exporter Of Nurses Face A Shortage At Home? | Undercover Asia

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yyWUs5iQUM

TITLE: Webinar #10 | COVID-19 and Children: The Experience of Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao

AUTHOR: TVUP / Ma. Delta S. Aguilar

DATE PUBLISHED: June 26, 2020

KEY CONTENT:

It was discussed in the webinar that during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) encountered difficulties in managing its patients, as several hospitals lacked sufficient bed capacity, necessitating the transfer of patients to SPMC. Consequently, SPMC also faced a shortage of beds over time, prompting the establishment of makeshift facilities near the hospital.

This relates to the research topic as it underscores the incapacity of certain hospitals in Mindanao to address patient needs due to inadequate medical resources. When hospitals like SPMC reach full capacity, they must resort to emergency measures such as setting up temporary facilities to accommodate additional patients. This illustrates the challenges faced by healthcare facilities in Mindanao in delivering adequate and timely healthcare services, especially during periods of heightened demand.

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Webinar #10 |  COVID-19 and Children: The Experience of Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao

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URL: https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/36642390/moro-reader-history-and-contemporary-struggles-of-the-bangsamoro-people

TITLE: The Moro Reader: History and Contemporary Struggles of the Bangsamoro People

DATE PUBLISHED: August 2008

AUTHOR: Bobby M. Tuazon and Oscar Evangelista

KEY CONTENT:

The book underscores the failure of the Philippine Legislature to allocate adequate funds not only for road construction in BARMM but also for its healthcare sector, despite drawing taxes from the region's populace and diverting the funds for personal gains. Consequently, the region grapples with shortages in healthcare resources, hampering its ability to provide quality healthcare facilities to its constituents.

Published in August 2008, the group aims to highlight the longstanding issue of healthcare resource and worker shortages in Mindanao, particularly affecting regions like BARMM that do not receive sufficient government support. Despite numerous initiatives to address this issue, it continues to persist, exacerbating the challenges faced by healthcare systems in Mindanao. As a result, the issue continues to affect the people of Mindanao in the present. Thus, the ongoing impact of this issue underscores the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to address the critical shortage of medical resources and healthcare workers in Mindanao.

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URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28580824/

TITLE: Addressing health workforce inequities in the Mindanao regions of the Philippines: Tracer study of graduates from a socially-accountable, community-engaged medical school and graduates from a conventional medical school

AUTHOR:  Servando 'Ben' Halili Jr, Fortunato Cristobal, Torres Woolley, Simone J Ross, Carole Reeve, A-J Neusy

DATE PUBLISHED: June 5, 2017

KEY CONTENT:

It was mentioned in the research paper that during the mid-1990s, Western Mindanao stood out as one of the most economically disadvantaged areas in the Philippines. It faced numerous challenges regarding socioeconomic status and health indicators, including high rates of birth, infant, and child mortality, widespread prevalence of infectious diseases and malnutrition, and severe shortages in healthcare resources. With a population of 4.5 million people, there were only 250 doctors available, with the majority concentrated in Zamboanga City, leaving over 80% of rural municipalities without medical practitioners. Currently, there are socially accountable medical graduates who express a willingness to serve in underserved communities. However, there is limited published evidence demonstrating the substantial impact of these graduates on addressing local health workforce shortages and meeting the healthcare needs of their respective communities.

This highlights the substantial obstacles Western Mindanao confronts regarding healthcare accessibility and resources, closely corresponding with the research topic. The shortage of healthcare workers in Mindanao has persisted since the mid-1990s, indicating the enduring nature of the issue over time. It underscores the continual healthcare crisis in Mindanao and underscores the pressing necessity for comprehensive interventions to tackle the deficit of medical resources and healthcare personnel in the region.

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Affiliations

¹ a School of Medicine , Ateneo de Zamboanga University , Zamboanga , Philippines.

² b College of Medicine and Dentistry , James Cook University , Townsville , Australia.

³ c The Training for Health Equity Network , Brussels , Belgium.

⁴ d School of Medicine , Flinders University , Alice Springs , Australia.

Affiliations

¹ a School of Medicine , Ateneo de Zamboanga University , Zamboanga , Philippines.

² b College of Medicine and Dentistry , James Cook University , Townsville , Australia.

³ c The Training for Health Equity Network , Brussels , Belgium.

⁴ d School of Medicine , Flinders University , Alice Springs , Australia.

Abstract

Developing and retaining a high-quality medical workforce in low-resource countries is a worldwide challenge. The Filipino Ateneo de Zamboanga University-School of Medicine (ADZU-SOM) has adopted a strong focus on socially accountable health professional education (SAHPE) in order to address the shortage of physicians across rural and urban communities in the Western Mindanao region. A cross-sectional survey of graduates from two Philippines medical schools: ADZU-SOM in the Mindanao region and a medical school with a more conventional curriculum, found ADZU-SOM graduates were more likely to have joined the medical profession due to a desire to help others (p = 0.002), came from lower socioeconomic strata (p = 0.001) and had significantly (p < 0.05) more positive attitudes to community service. ADZU graduates were also more likely to currently work in Government Rural Health Units (p < 0.001) or be generalist Medical Officers (p < 0.001) or Rural/Municipal Health Officers (p = 0.003). ADZU graduates were also less likely to work in private or specialist Government hospitals (p = 0.033 and p = 0.040, respectively) and be surgical or medical specialists (p = 0.010 and p < 0.001, respectively). The findings suggest ADZU-SOM's SAHPE philosophy manifests in the practice choices of its graduates and that the ADZU-SOM can meet the rural and urban health workforce needs of the Western Mindanao region.

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Addressing health workforce inequities in the Mindanao regions of the Philippines: Tracer study of graduates from a socially-accountable, community-engaged medical school and graduates from a conventional medical school - PubMed

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Developing and retaining a high-quality medical workforce in low-resource countries is a worldwide challenge. The Filipino Ateneo de Zamboanga University-School of Medicine (ADZU-SOM) has adopted a strong focus on socially accountable health professional education (SAHPE) in order to address the sho ...

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URL: https://media.philstar.com/photos/2021/10/20/oped_2021-10-20_22-26-23.jpg

TITLE: EDITORIAL - Hospital manpower shortage

AUTHOR: The Philippine Star

DATE PUBLISHED: October 21, 2021

KEY CONTENT:

This visual artwork accompanies an editorial addressing the scarcity of healthcare workers in the Philippines, particularly evident during the peak of the pandemic. It highlights the challenge faced by healthcare professionals in coping with the increasing demand for medical services, as indicated by the Private Hospitals Association Philippines (PHAPI) reporting a 12 to 15 percent rise in severe and critical COVID cases. However, despite this surge in patient numbers, there is a noticeable inadequacy of healthcare workers to manage the situation effectively.

This visual artwork of healthcare workers mirrors the situation in some regions of Mindanao, where the ratio of doctors to patients is disproportionately low or the number of patients overwhelms the available medical personnel. As a result, these areas struggle to provide adequate healthcare services, exacerbating the challenges faced by both healthcare workers and patients alike.