Advancing One Health: The Launch of the LAWA Model Guidebook in the Philippines

A new chapter in One Health education was written on April 30, 2025, at the National University – MOA, where public health leaders, academics, and advocates gathered to celebrate the launch of the Philippines' LAWA Model Guidebook—a milestone that bridges science, community, and sustainability.

This achievement was made possible through funding support from Chevron, in collaboration with the Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN), Tropical Disease Research Center (TDRC)–Khon Kaen University, National University (Philippines), Polytechnic University of the Philippines, New Era University, and the Philippine One Health University Network (PhilOHUN).

LAWA—short for Leptospirosis Awareness Warning and Action—is more than a public health model; it’s a community-led movement grounded in the One Health framework, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Originally developed in Thailand by TDRC-KKU, the LAWA model addresses pressing waterborne and zoonotic diseases such as liver fluke infection and leptospirosis through a localized, practical approach.

With Chevron’s generous support and SEAOHUN’s regional coordination, the LAWA PH team adapted the guidebook to the Filipino context—demonstrating how international partnerships can create tangible local impact.

“The launch of the LAWA Guidebook reflects our shared vision of building healthier communities through education, research, and multisectoral collaboration,” said Dr. Tongkorn Meeyam, Executive Director of SEAOHUN.

The launch was enriched by messages from institutional partners and advocates, including representatives from National University, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, and New Era University. Their remarks underscored academia’s essential role in strengthening community resilience and public health capacity.

A highlight of the event was the keynote address by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sirikachorn Tangkawattana, co-founder of the LAWA Model from Khon Kaen University, who recounted the model’s success in Thailand and emphasized the importance of government engagement, strong communication strategies, and long-term vision in sustainably eliminating liver fluke disease.

The Philippine adaptation of the LAWA guidebook was formally introduced by Ms. Khristine L. Sandoval of National University, who shared insights from her participation in the LAWA Model Online Course delivered by TDRC-KKU in 2023. Together with her team—Mr. Ryan V. Labana (PUP), Ms. Kristel Joy S. Cada (NEU), Mr. Jose Marie T. Taller, Mr. Rodel Victor D. Dimasin, and Ms. Diosa Marie M. Marundan—she presented the guidebook and explored its potential to enhance One Health education across the country.

From policy alignment to grassroots implementation, the LAWA Guidebook stands out as a practical and scalable tool for addressing zoonotic health threats in Southeast Asia.

The event culminated in a roundtable discussion and forum on “The Future of One Health,” featuring thought leaders such as Dr. Melbourne Talactac (Cavite State University), Dr. Neil Tanquilut (Pampanga State Agricultural University), and Dr. Michael Tee (UP Manila). The panelists called for greater academic leadership and innovation to shape a future-ready public health workforce.

As the event closed, a sense of momentum filled the room. The LAWA Guidebook is more than a publication—it’s a symbol of collective action, co-creation, and a shared future where One Health education equips communities to face emerging challenges with confidence.