How Developing Countries Are Fighting Antimicrobial Resistance and Zoonotic Diseases

Written By CMS Admin

The global meat supply is at a crossroads, with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and zoonotic diseases emerging as major threats to global public health. If left unchecked, these issues could spark a crisis of pandemic proportions. With rising concerns over global health threats, nations like the Philippines are taking proactive steps to mitigate risks and implement sustainable solutions that safeguard both human and animal populations.

What’s the problem?

AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist medications, making infections harder to treat and increasing disease spread. Meanwhile, zoonotic diseases—caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that jump from animals to humans—pose another pressing concern. Together, these challenges create a dangerous convergence, heightening public health risks worldwide.

While wealthier nations leverage advanced technologies and strict regulations to manage AMR and zoonotic threats, developing countries face hurdles due to limited resources and infrastructure. However, the Philippines is actively addressing this issue by adopting the One Health framework, a collaborative, multisectoral approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

Taking it One Health at a time

These are the ways how the Philippines have been utilizing a One Health approach in dealing with this growing concern:

  • At the national level, the Philippine Inter-Agency Committee on Zoonoses (PhilCZ) was established in 2011 to develop a cohesive strategy for preventing and controlling zoonotic diseases. This multi-sectoral task force, composed of agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), works to enhance surveillance, streamline data sharing, and implement effective disease control measures.

  • In 2018, the DA launched the Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Program for Animal Health (ARSP-AH), aimed at establishing baseline AMR data in poultry, swine, and fish. This initiative promotes responsible antibiotic use in animal nutrition and strengthens regulatory oversight to ensure sustainable livestock production.

  • On a regional level, local government units (LGUs) are playing a vital role in reinforcing One Health efforts. By improving governance, conducting joint risk assessments, and enhancing surveillance systems, LGUs are working to streamline information sharing and improve response times to emerging health threats.

  • Additionally, the Philippines is strengthening its border control measures by integrating biosecurity protocols at points of entry (POEs). This effort, alongside enhanced communication between healthcare facilities and public health agencies, ensures rapid reporting and response to potential zoonotic outbreaks.

As AMR and zoonotic diseases continue to pose significant threats to global health, proactive measures in developing countries are critical to preventing the next major pandemic. The Philippines’ efforts for antimicrobial stewardship, biosecurity strategies, and sustainable solutions demonstrate that with coordinated efforts, responsible policies, and innovative approaches, the fight against these public health risks is both possible and necessary.

Be one with One Health

Individuals can be part of the Philippines’ One Health approach in combatting AMR and zoonotic diseases. By practicing responsible antibiotic use—such as adhering to prescribed treatments and avoiding self-medication—we can help reduce the development of resistant strains. Maintaining proper hygiene, ensuring food safety, and supporting biosecurity strategies in local communities further minimize the risk of animal-to-human transmission.

One effective way to contribute is by choosing sustainable alternative products, which promote feed efficiency and sustainable livestock production, thereby reducing the reliance on antibiotics and lowering public health risks. Learn more about how ANN is leading the industry in this movement by clicking here.

References

CMS Admin
Next

Introducing ANN's New Marine-Based Peptides: The Next Generation of Animal Nutrition