CENTAM GUARDIAN 2026 Strengthens Regional EMT Preparedness in Central America

Washington, D.C., May 18, 2026 - Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) from El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Panama, together with national authorities and regional actors, participated in the CENTAM GUARDIAN 2026 simulation exercise as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen preparedness and response to emergencies and disasters in Central America.

The exercise represented an important step forward for participating countries in strengthening EMT preparedness and response capacities, as well as team deployment and classification processes aligned with the EMT Initiative in the Region of the Americas.

The activity, held from April 17-24 in San Salvador, El Salvador, was coordinated by the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) and helped assess response systems and procedures under a simulated large-scale earthquake scenario. It also evaluated the full response cycle of participating EMTs, from activation and mobilization to deployment, operations, and demobilization.

The exercise included a technical preparation phase ("academy") and a practical simulation exercise involving EMTs and other rapid response teams and capacities. It also helped strengthen civil-military coordination and promote exchange among national institutions, regional teams, and actors involved in emergency response.

The health component was coordinated nationally by Civil Protection, with the participation of the Ministry of Health of El Salvador. Meanwhile, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) provided technical support throughout the exercise, supporting EMT strengthening efforts through the implementation of operational standards, coordination mechanisms, and tools for health emergencies.

The event also helped assess the functionality of the Medical Information and Coordination Cell (CICOM), strengthening information management, needs assessment, and response coordination through the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC).

Key outcomes included strengthened emergency decision-making processes, improved national and regional coordination, and optimized patient flow across areas such as triage, stabilization, specialized care, and operational support.

The exercise also promoted the exchange of experiences among participating countries, contributing to more harmonized procedures and more coordinated responses across the region.

CENTAM GUARDIAN 2026 continues to serve as a key regional platform for strengthening preparedness and coordination for emergencies and disasters in Central America, contributing to the protection of life and health across the region.