Researchers from the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) are studying the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in livestock as part of the Inter-regional Network Through One Health Approach to Combat AMR Program, with funding from the Department of Science and Technology and monitored by the DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD). 

According to a study in 2015, the use of antibiotics in livestock is predicted to increase up to 67% by year 2030. Along with this is the potential development and evolution of AMR. 

“The increase of AMR in animals also poses a threat to the effectiveness of antimicrobials in managing diseases in humans.” explained DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Jaime Montoya. “This is why the DOST-PCHRD supports the One Health Approach to Combat AMR which advocates for integrated efforts in solving AMR through ensuring human, animal, and environmental health,” he added. 

To provide data that will support AMR mitigation strategies in animals, the project entitled, “Surveillance, Social Dimension and Policy Analysis to Mitigate Antimicrobial Resistance in Swine, Poultry and Aquaculture Farm,” will explore the knowledge, attitude, and practices of swine, poultry, and aquaculture producers on antimicrobial use (AMU) and resistance (AMR) in the Philippines. The project is led by Dr. Alona Badua of the CLSU.

To educate livestock farmers about AMR, the team produced information, education, and communication (IEC) materials on the status of AMR in the country and its effects on poultry, aquaculture, and swine industry.

Antimicrobial Resistance in Aquaculture: Risks and Management

Are your antibiotics still effective? Things You Need to Know About Antimicrobial Resistance in Swine

Antimicrobial Resistance and the Poultry Industry

The materials will be distributed to select farm sites across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao through their respective local government units (LGUs). Online distribution of the materials is currently being explored. The team also obtained copyrights for the materials by acquiring Certificates of Copyright and Deposit from the National Library of the Philippines. 

On gaining insights relating to current antibiotic use and practice of farmers, Dr. Badua’s team is currently coordinating with authorities for possible sampling sites in Minalin, Lubao, and Masantol, Pampanga for Luzon; Jaro and Palo, Leyte for Visayas; and General Santos City, Banga, and Lake Sebu for South Cotabato for Mindanao. The team also distributed questionnaires to gather data on how resistant strains of intestinal bacteria proliferate in poultry, aquaculture, and swine farm settings in the possible study sites. 

The information to be collected by the project will be valuable in developing mitigating measures to reduce AMR and improve the productivity of the livestock sectors. Ultimately, under the One Health Approach, addressing AMR in food sources such as livestock is a vital step in solving AMR as a public health concern as it recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental sectors. The project is expected to be completed by January 2026.