Ozamiz Leads PH as First LGU to Implement Citywide AED Deployment, Conduct Hands-On CPR Training Across 51 Barangays

By: Bhal Abad Cabrera

OZAMIZ CITY — Ozamiz has become the first local government unit (LGU) in the Philippines to deploy Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across all 51 barangays and major public facilities, complemented by a citywide hands-on CPR-only and AED training for frontline responders and community volunteers.

The activity, conducted on November 25, 2025, at the Ozamiz City Gymnasium, gathered barangay officials, health workers, disaster responders, uniformed personnel, and private medical partners in what is considered one of the most extensive community lifesaving trainings implemented by a Philippine LGU.

The initiative is the result of a partnership between former Ozamiz City Mayor and now Asenso Pinoy Partylist Representative Indy Oaminal Jr. and Mayor Sam Norman G. Fuentes.

According to Mayor Fuentes, the AED modernization plan—which includes wide distribution of devices and compulsory community training—was conceptualized and initiated under Oaminal’s administration and later expanded and fully implemented under Fuentes’ leadership. Citywide AED Deployment under the program, AED units were deployed to:

• All 51 barangays

• City government offices

• Tourism sites and public places

• Labo Airport

• Ozamiz City Seaport

Officials said this ensures quicker response during cardiac emergencies, significantly increasing survival chances.

Hands-On CPR and AED Training participants underwent practical, hands-on sessions, including CPR-only training using mannequins and supervised AED application exercises. Trainers emphasized the importance of proper chest compression techniques and rapid defibrillation—key steps in the “chain of survival.” Continuity in Governance:

The city government noted that the program demonstrates how continuity in governance enables long-term public safety initiatives. Oaminal’s groundwork provided the initial framework, while Fuentes’ administration oversaw expansion, training, and full implementation.

A Model for Other LGUs:  Local officials expect the program to serve as a template for other LGUs seeking to strengthen emergency response systems at the community level.

With both AED deployment and hands-on lifesaving training now completed citywide, Ozamiz positions itself as a leader in grassroots emergency preparedness and capability-building.