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  5. Strengthening Regional Capacity for Pediatric TB Diagnosis through Supplemental Training on the Simple One-Step Stool Method

Strengthening Regional Capacity for Pediatric TB Diagnosis through Supplemental Training on the Simple One-Step Stool Method

The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine–National TB Reference Laboratory (RITM–NTRL), in collaboration with the Unitaid-funded and KNCV-led ASCENT DR-TB Project, successfully conducted three batches of Supplemental Training on the Simple One-Step (SOS) Stool Method for the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra Assay between August and September 2025.

Aim

This series of trainings aimed to enhance the technical competencies and instructional capacities of regional Xpert trainers in preparation for the programmatic implementation of stool-based low-complexity nucleic acid amplification testing (LC-NAAT) for pediatric TB diagnosis in the Philippines.

A total of 18 Xpert trainers representing all regions of the country participated in the three-day, face-to-face sessions, which combined lectures, hands-on laboratory exercises, group discussions, and implementation planning workshops. Core modules covered biosafety, specimen handling, SOS method procedures, and integration of stool-based testing into regional diagnostic networks.

Training results

The results demonstrated remarkable learning gains. Average post-test scores increased from 80–85% to 95–96%, while competency assessment ratings ranged from 95–100%. Participants also rated the training “Excellent” in terms of content, objectives, and methodology.

Beyond technical learning, participants developed regional training and action plans to guide the cascade of SOS method implementation in their respective regions. These plans will support the upcoming nationwide rollout of stool-based LC-NAAT under the National TB Control Program.

By the end of the sessions, the activity successfully achieved its goals of building technical proficiency, standardizing stool-based testing practices, and strengthening collaboration among regional trainers. This initiative marks a key milestone in improving bacteriologic confirmation of TB among children, reinforcing the Department of Health’s commitment to ensure that no child with TB is left undiagnosed or untreated, a vital step in the collective journey to End TB.

See pictures below

Facilitators (Mr. Olazo and Ms. Coprada) from the training providing feedback on the performance of the participants on their practice exercises.
Dr. Quelapio (first from right) and Ms. Coprada (2nd from right), observing the participants on how they perform the SOS method.
Xpert Trainers from CAR, Regions I, II, IV-B, VI, and XII together with Dr. Clarissa Halum (fifth from the right), WHO, Dr. Ramon Basilio (fourth from the left), head of RITM-NTRL, facilitators from RITM–NTRL, led by Mr. Louis Olazo (fourth from right) Section Head of the Learning and Development Section, Ms. Dolly Santos, Project Officer (first from left) and Ms. Leveriza Coprada (second from left), representing the Unitaid-funded and KNCV-led ASCENT DR-TB Project.
Turnover of weighing scales provided by the Project for use in the Training of Trainers, headed by Dr. Mamel Quelapio, from KNCV (third from right) and Mr. Louis Olazo (second from left) from RITM-NTRL.
Mr. Noel Alejandrino from the National Capital Region labeling the SR buffer to be used in processing of stool.
Xpert Trainers from the Regions III, IV-A, VII, VIII, NIR and CARAGA. RITM – NTRL representatives headed by Dr. Ramon Basilio (2nd from the left) and Unitaid-funded and KNCV-led ASCENT DR-TB Project headed by Dr. Ma. Imelda Quelapio and Ms. Leveriza Coprada, Laboratory Consultant.
Xpert Trainers from the National Capital Region, Regions V, IX, X, XI, XII, and BARMM, together with facilitators from RITM–NTRL, led by Mr. Louis Olazo (first from left), Section Head of the Learning and Development Section, and Dr. Rugaya Calapis (fifth from right), joined by Ms. Leveriza Coprada (fourth from right), representing the KNCV/Unitaid ASCENT DR-TB Project
Ms. Jeanelyn Taguinod, Regional Medical Technologist Coordinator, presents the Region 2 training design and plan.