Liceo de Cagayan University has been named the training site for Emergency Medical Technician Basic Course (Paramedics Course) in Region 10 through a partnership with Community Health Education Emergency Rescue Services (CHEERS), an American Heart Association International Training Center in the Philippines.

CHEERS is a dynamic and fast growing company specializing in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Occupational Safety, health trainings, vaccination with international and local certification. It is the only firm in the industry of Emergency Care and Safety Training in the country who have both local and international affiliations. They are recognized and endorsed by CHED, PRC, DOLE, OWWA, DOH, TESDA, PNA and ADPCN as the pioneer service provider on first-aid science, emergency cardiovascular care and EMT-Basic Paramedic studies.

As part of CHEERS’ efforts to bring the program closer to more people and believing in the capacity and thrust of Liceo U in academic excellence, CHEERS have fostered ties with the institution in the hopes of offering competitive training for those who seek a career in the field of Paramedics. The partnership agreement was formally sealed via a signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on May 25, 2012 at the Rodelsa Board Room, Liceo de Cagayan University. Present during the signing were Dr. Mariano M. Lerin, Liceo University President; Ms. Sandy Montano, CHEERS VP for Marketing; Mr. Dennis Layug, CHEERS Director; Dr. Chona V. Palomares, Nursing Dean and Mr. Rey Solde, Institute of Short Studies Coordinator of Liceo U.

This Emergency Medical Technician Program is designed for participants wanting to gain Certification as an Emergency Medical Technician enabling them with advanced medical skills and knowledge. A graduate of the program will earn an international Certificate from Australasian Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (AREMT) through CHEERS, its Regional Affiliate and Country designate in the Philippines.

With this bridging course, nursing graduates as well as graduates of other allied medical courses will have better career opportunities here and abroad. The demand for Paramedics personnel in countries like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United States and Canada are on the rise, in recognition of their vital role as efficient first responders. In the United States, employment of emergency medical technicians and paramedics is expected to grow by 19 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is faster than the average for all other professionals. Full-time paid EMTs and paramedics will be needed to replace unpaid volunteers. It is becoming increasingly difficult for emergency medical services to recruit and retain unpaid volunteers because of the amount of training and the large time commitment these positions require. As a result, more paid EMTs and paramedics are needed. Furthermore, as a large segment of the population, --- aging members of the baby boom generation --- becomes more likely to have medical emergencies, demand will increase for EMTs and paramedics. This development however does not negate demand for part-time, volunteer EMTs and paramedics in rural areas and smaller metropolitan areas (source: US Department of Labor).

For inquiries about the Emergency Medical Technician Basic Course call 8584093 to 95 local 115 or visit Liceo de Cagayan University College of Nursing or Institute of Short Studies (ISS), Rodolfo Neri Pelaez Boulevard, Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City or visit www.liceo.edu.ph