MANILA, Nov. 21 -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) called on the public Friday to practice responsible use of antibiotics.

The call coincided with the country's participation in the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) from Nov. 18 to 24.

The annual global observance aims to raise awareness on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) -a growing health threat that occurs when antibiotics and similar medicines become ineffective due to misuse or overuse.

Health experts warn that when AMR develops, common infections become harder to treat and may lead to severe complications, longer hospital stays, and increased health costs.

In its information campaign, PhilHealth reminded Filipinos of the "3 Ms" for proper antibioti...