Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master in Public Health

Keywords

biological specimens, biosafety and biosecurity, bureau of quarantine, emerging and re-emerging diseases, health governance, infectious substances, specimen transport

Abstract

The safe transport of biological specimens, especially those containing infectious agents, is essential to prevent contamination, safeguarding public health, and ensuring the integrity of the specimens. Transportation incidents may result from accidental or intentional actions, type of infectious agents, nature of exposure, and environment in which they occur. Human factors also play significant role in the supply chain of hazardous materials. The undeclaration or misdeclaration of such materials – whether intentional, inadequate training, or negligence – poses risk to public health. Adherence to regulations on proper classification, packaging, labeling, and documentation minimizes risk, and ensures accountability from both shippers and couriers.

The Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) is mandated under the Republic Act of 9271, the “Quarantine Act of 2004”, to safeguard the public health at points of entry, specifically airports and seaports, by preventing the introduction and spread of emerging and re-emerging diseases with minimal interference with travel and trade. In 2018, the BOQ established the Department Memorandum 2018-0413, “Interim Guidelines on Transportation of Biological Specimens,” to ensure the safe transportation of potentially infectious materials by requiring a quarantine clearance prior to shipment. However, as a provisional measure, the interim guidelines focused solely on the procedural aspects of securing of quarantine clearance, underscoring the need for a more comprehensive policy.

Using the Department of Health’s policy development framework, this project undertook a three-phase process involving the creation of Technical Working Group, an extensive review of international and national policies, and consultation with BOQ Station Heads. This efforts led to the BOQ Director’s approval of the proposed guidelines, paving the way for further consultative meetings as part of the completed staff work.

The guideline’s development highlights the importance of leadership, multisectoral collaboration, evidence-based policymaking in enhancing health service delivery. With the sustainability strategies in place, the proposed guidelines are expected to improve efficiency, safety, and accountability of biological specimen transport nationwide.

First Advisor

Lourdes Risa S. Yapchiongco, MSc

Download

Share

COinS