The Philippines, a nation frequently in the crosshair of typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural calamities, has polished its disaster response capabilities through years of challenging experience.

Since 2013, after the country was struck by Super Typhoon Haiyan, efforts were made to strengthen its own emergency medical teams based on global standards. Exactly 10 years after, from once recipient of international aid, for the first time, the Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Team was deployed internationally in response to the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in the Republic of Türkiye in 2023.

PEMAT served a total of 1,022 patients during their 14-day operation within the 21-day duration of the mission.

Despite the extreme cold weather, language barrier, cultural differences, unfamiliar surroundings, long travel, PEMAT provided quality health services to the people of Adiyaman. Majority (97.4%) of the patients rated the PEMAT service as “excellent,” and none rated the service as “poor” and “very poor”.

PEMAT’s first international deployment showcased the country’s capacity to respond effectively to disasters, both domestically and internationally. It is a testament to the “Bayanihan” spirit of the Filipino people and the unwavering commitment and solidarity in helping those in need, anytime and anywhere in the world.

The journey from a domestic response to a global humanitarian workforce is a remarkable transformation. As the Philippines continues to face its own challenges, the lessons from the said international deployment will be applied to strengthen the country’s disaster preparedness and response, especially with the possibility of an earthquake happening in the country’s capital.