From December 2 to 5, 2024, we joined the Department of Health Center for Health Development in Northern Mindanao in supporting Lecture Series 5 and the Graduation of the first Field Epidemiology Training Program Intermediate Course in Mindanao. Held in Cagayan de Oro City, this event marked the completion of the region’s pioneering batch of FETP-IC fellows, with APMARGIN providing technical mentorship throughout the course.

The lecture series focused on refining the fellows’ final outputs. We worked with each participant one-on-one to strengthen their scientific presentations, poster exhibits, and guides for establishing functional Epidemiology and Surveillance Units in their respective areas. These outputs were designed not just to meet course requirements but to serve as tools for real-world public health response.

Showcasing Real-World Learning

During the Scientific Conference, the fellows shared their work with peers, mentors, and local officials. Their presentations covered key field investigations, including a puffer fish poisoning incident in Basilan, dengue surveillance efforts in Iligan City, and diarrheal surveillance systems in Cagayan de Oro. Visitors explored the fellows’ posters and engaged them in discussions about their findings and approaches.

These were not just academic exercises. Each case study reflected actual events that demanded evidence-based response, coordination with local stakeholders, and practical epidemiologic skills. The conference served as a space to reflect on those challenges and lessons.

Celebrating New Field Epidemiologists

On December 5, the graduation ceremony brought together partners from the Department of Health, local government units, and our team at APMARGIN to honor the fellows’ journey. Graduates received their certificates, symbolizing their transition into the field and their commitment to apply their training to strengthen surveillance systems and support outbreak investigations at the local level.

The program ended on a high note, with the fellows performing the song “Defying Gravity” and sharing the moment with their families and colleagues during a social night that followed the formal proceedings.

Why This Matters

This first batch of FETP-IC graduates in Mindanao marks an important step toward building a stronger public health workforce in the region. With better trained epidemiologists at the local level, Mindanao is now more prepared to detect and respond to public health threats quickly and effectively. This aligns with broader goals of improving surveillance systems and advancing the principles of Universal Health Care.

If you would like a copy of the full report for reference or documentation, please feel free to get in touch. We would be happy to share more about the experience and the outcomes from this milestone event.