See and Sequence: Integrating Whole-Genome Sequencing Within the National Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Program in the Philippines

WGS provided an enhanced understanding of the interplay between strains, genes and vehicles driving the dissemination of carbapenem resistance in the Philippines. We generated a blueprint for the integration of WGS and genomic epidemiology into an established national system of laboratory-based surveillance of AMR through international collaboration. Continued prospective sequencing, capacity building and collaboration will strengthen genomic surveillance of AMR in the Philippines and the translation of genomic data into public-health action.