Private sector-led capacity building: ARISE Philippines launches 2026 hands-only CPR campaign

ARISE Philippines has commenced its 2026 Hands-Only CPR Campaign, reinforcing private sector engagement in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and contributing to national resilience-building efforts aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030.

The campaign is implemented in partnership with the Department of Health – Health Emergency Management Bureau (DOH-HEMB) to ensure alignment with national emergency response protocols and public health standards. The training was further supported by instructors from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) National Headquarters, who provided technical guidance and supervised return demonstrations.

The initiative falls under ARISE Philippines’ Capacity Building for Resilience and Sustainability strategic program, which promotes risk-informed and prevention-oriented practices among businesses and institutions. Through competency-based demonstrations and return demonstrations, participants gain practical skills to respond to sudden cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies in workplace and public settings.

In 2025, ARISE Philippines conducted nine Hands-Only CPR trainings across Luzon and the Visayas, establishing the foundation for nationwide scaling. As of early 2026, the program has trained 2,368 individuals, including employees, security personnel, and institutional partners.

The 2026 rollout continues through a phased expansion strategy, with Mindanao identified as a strategic next phase. By strengthening first-response capacity and investing in human capital, the initiative demonstrates how private sector-led capacity building can support the implementation of DRR priorities and contribute to a more resilient Philippines.