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EVHRDC Holds First-Ever Stakeholders’ Forum, Turns Over Policy Briefs to Leyte and Samar for Evidence-Informed Health Policymaking
TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines — Marking a significant step in institutionalizing research-driven public health action, the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) successfully held its inaugural “Stakeholders’ Forum: Policy Dialogue on Health Issues” on December 9–10, 2025, at Hotel de Fides, Tacloban City.
The landmark activity convened researchers, policymakers, provincial leaders, hospital administrators, municipal health officers, and frontline workers to transform regional health research findings into actionable and locally responsive policy directions for Eastern Visayas.
Day 1: Opening the Dialogue—Aligning Science and Governance
The activity commenced with welcome messages that underscored the forum’s importance in translating scientific evidence into actionable policy. Dr. Sherrie Ann Cananua-Labid, Executive Director for Research at Samar State University and Chair of the EVHRDC Research Utilization Committee, emphasized the consortium’s commitment to ensuring that research outputs meaningfully inform local health systems.
This was followed by Mr. Leonido P. Olobia, Chair of the EVHRDC-RMC and DOH-EVCHD Research Program Coordinator, who outlined the objectives and flow of the two-day activity, setting the tone for a collaborative, solution-oriented dialogue.
A key feature of the opening day was a multi-level panel discussion that brought together perspectives from different governance levels, featuring:
• Atty. Carlo P. Loreto, Majority Floor Leader, Province of Leyte
• Ms. Arlene P. Aquino, MDM, PhDPM, AFP (Ret.), OWLENS 2024 Awardee
• Dr. Katerina C. Abiertas, Municipal Health Officer, Samar; President, AMHOP VIII
• Dr. Ronald E. Flores, Provincial Health Officer II
• Ms. Maria Mila Baltazar, RN, MM, MAN, Chief Nurse, Leyte Provincial Hospital
• Mr. Leonido P. Olobia, DOH Research Program Coordinator
Their insights illuminated the challenges, opportunities, and governance realities surrounding health policymaking in the region. The discussion was skillfully moderated by Dr. Jonas P. Villas, Chair of EVHRDC-SOMEC and Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, ensuring a cohesive and engaging exchange of ideas.
Day 2: Evidence-to-Policy Workshops Guided by Expert Facilitation
Building on the discussions from Day 1, the second day focused on guiding participants through the meticulous process of translating research findings into concrete policy directions. Once again, Dr. Jonas P. Villas served as the lead facilitator, providing structured guidance that allowed participants to refine and articulate evidence-based policy options with clarity and coherence.
Under his leadership, participants undertook a systematic process of problem analysis, policy framing, evidence prioritization, and formulation of policy recommendations. The workshops drew from studies previously presented during the 2025 Regional Health Research Symposium, covering urgent health concerns such as:
- ICT competency of healthcare workers
- Immunization gaps across communities
- Infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in hospitals
- Emergency response readiness in geographically isolated areas
- Maternal and neonatal outcomes in the region
Through Dr. Villas’ facilitation, these diverse evidence bases were synthesized into actionable policy briefs tailored to the needs of provincial, municipal, and hospital-level decision-makers.
Final Policy Briefs Developed and Endorsed:
- Strengthening ICT Competency of Healthcare Providers in Ormoc City: Building a Digitally-Ready Barangay Health System
- Closing Immunization Gaps in the Province of Leyte
- Aligning Data, Governance, and Multi-Level Coordination for Universal Health Care in Eastern Visayas
- Strengthening Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Compliance in Region VIII Hospitals
- Institutionalizing Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs) in Far-Flung Communities of Ormoc City: Evidence-Based Policy Directions for Sustainability
- Reducing Adverse Birth Outcomes in Samar through Maternal Education, ANC, and Social Support
These policy briefs were formally received by representatives from various governance levels:
- Dr. Katerina C. Abiertas (Municipal/MHO Level – Samar)
- Ms. Maria Mila Baltazar (Hospital Level – Leyte Provincial Hospital)
Their acceptance signified their commitment to integrating research-backed recommendations into local planning, program development, and investment prioritization.
Recognizing Collaboration and Commitment
The awarding of certificates to resource persons by Dr. Lucia P. Dauz, Consortium Director, and Committee Chairs, acknowledged the active participation of experts who contributed to the forum’s success.
In her closing message, Dr. Dauz affirmed that this inaugural policy dialogue marks a pivotal shift in the region’s approach to health governance - where research utilization becomes a standard practice rather than an exception.
A Milestone for Eastern Visayas Health Research
The Stakeholders’ Forum: Policy Dialogue on Health Issues stands as a landmark achievement for EVHRDC, demonstrating how collaborative, evidence-based policymaking can shape the future of public health in Eastern Visayas.
By successfully developing and turning over policy briefs grounded in local evidence, EVHRDC has strengthened the bridge between scientific research and governance—ensuring that policies and programs are responsive, strategic, and people-centered.
The forum sets the stage for sustained partnerships and continuous policy innovation, paving the way for a healthier and more resilient Eastern Visayas.
Supporting the successful implementation of the activity were the members of the secretariat:
- Ms. Doris S. Cadion, PTA III
- Mr. Vincent Bato
- Ms. Jass Dilao
whose coordination ensured the smooth flow of the two-day program.
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- Written by Sherrie Ann Cananua-Labid, Research Utilization Committee, Samar State University
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TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines — The Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) proudly concluded the 2025 Regional Health Research Symposium on December 1–2, 2025 at Summit Hotel, Tacloban City, showcasing exceptional scientific achievements that advance the region’s health landscape. Anchored on the theme “One Health for All: Igniting Transdisciplinary Solutions for a Healthier Eastern Visayas,” the two-day event brought together researchers, students, professionals, and institutions committed to developing evidence-based solutions for public health challenges.
The symposium highlighted the depth and diversity of health research across the region through its Oral and Poster Research Competitions, underscoring EVHRDC’s continued commitment to fostering innovation for community impact.
SSU, EVMC, UEP Lead Professional Oral Research Awards
In the Professional Category, researchers presented studies addressing critical health issues—from maternal and neonatal outcomes to infectious diseases and clinical care innovations.
First Place was awarded to Samar State University (SSU) for the study “From Data to Delivery: Predictors of Adverse Birth Outcomes in Samar,” presented by Dr. Sherrie Ann Cananua-Labid, the principal investigator with co-authors Sheriah Laine De Paz-Silava and Leodoro J. Labrague. The study provides vital insights into maternal health and contributes evidence that can improve facility- and community-level interventions.
Second Place went to the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) for “Clinical Outcomes Among Preterm Infants Requiring Continuous Positive Airway Pressure with Kangaroo Mother Care,” presented by Dr. Jonalyn Chavez with co-author Dr. Angelica Joyce A. Gacutno-Evardone.
Third Place was claimed by the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) for the study “Diet–microbiome association of school-aged children from Leyte, Philippines,” presented by Mr. Flyndon Mark S. Dagalea and a multidisciplinary team of collaborators.
UP Tacloban, PSHS, RTR Dominate Student Oral Research Category
Young scientists demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity in the Student Category, presenting studies highly relevant to public health and environmental monitoring.
First Place was awarded to UP Tacloban for the study “Conjugative Plasmids Carrying blaNDM Carbapenemase Gene from Environmental Bacteria in Mangonbangon River,” presented by Mr. Jonel Pontica, highlighting environmental antimicrobial resistance risks.
Philippine Science High School (PSHS) secured Second Place for the in silico analysis “Flavonoids in Moringa oleifera as Inhibitors for NS3/NS5 of DENV,” presented by Ms. Samantha Gail G. Macabit.
Third Place went to RTR for “Water Physicochemical and Edaphic Factors Contributing to the Presence of Oncomelania hupensis quadrasi,” presented by Mr. Kurt Ruchez L. Artates, contributing important evidence for schistosomiasis control.
Poster Competition Highlights Power of Visual Science Communication
The Poster Research Competition showcased entries that transformed complex datasets into compelling visual narratives—an essential skill in advocating for One Health solutions.
Professional Category Winners
- First Place – EVMC
“Incidental Histopathologic Findings of Schistoma Ova Deposits in Post-Operative Specimens”
Presenter: Dr. Jan Vincent Eamiguel
- Second Place – EVMC
“Newly Diagnosed Patients with Metabolic Syndrome at Risk for Advanced Hepatic Fibrosis Based on FIB-4 Score”
Presenter: Dr. Marie T. Rayala, with Dr. Ethel Pearl SM. Eamiguel
- Third Place – SSU
“Reimagining Resilience: The Moral, Emotional, and Professional Horizons of Filipino Nurses in Eastern Visayas”
Presenter: Dr. Rheajane A. Rosales
Student Category Winners
- First Place – DRTREFI
“Phenotypic and Molecular Identification of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Public Utility Jeepneys”
Presenter: Ms. Moira Junnethana A. Cablao
- Second Place – DRTREFI
“Air Quality Monitoring Through Measurement of Particulate Matter Concentration at Robinsons Marasbaras and Magsaysay Boulevard”
Presenter: Mr. Thomas Jhae Uyvico
- Third Place – PSHS
“Toxicological Assessment of Lead and Cadmium in Eyeshadows Sold in Tacloban City”
Presenter: Ms. Satine Jade M. Avorque, with student collaborators
Advancing One Health Through Research Excellence
This year’s winning studies spanned maternal health, infectious diseases, environmental monitoring, nutrition, microbiology, and health systems—demonstrating that One Health solutions thrive when multiple disciplines converge.
The symposium highlighted EVHRDC’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a robust regional research ecosystem that drives evidence-based policymaking and strengthens public health programs across Eastern Visayas.
As the event closed, participants reaffirmed their shared vision: a healthier, more resilient Eastern Visayas built on science, collaboration, and community-centered innovation.
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- Written by Vincent Jay Bato, DOST VIII - EVHRDC
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The Capacity Building Committee (CBC) of the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC), in collaboration with the Research Management Committee (RMC), successfully conducted the Training-Workshop on Biotechnology and Biomedical Research on October 22–24, 2025, at Hotel Alejandro, Tacloban City.
The three-day training-workshop aimed to build and strengthen the competencies of health researchers, medical practitioners, faculty members, and research coordinators in developing and implementing high-quality research proposals in the fields of biotechnology and biomedical sciences.
In her Opening Message, Dr. Analyn C. Españo, Chairperson of the CBC-EVHRDC, warmly welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the training-workshop as a strategic initiative to advance the region’s health research capabilities.
Distinguished resource speakers — Dr. EA Kristine Clarisse Tulin, the emerging Filipino Scientist, making significant contributions to the fields of biochemistry, glycobiology, and biomedical sciences, Ms. Mikhaela Bargamento, Research Assistant at Nagasaki University, Japan, and Ms. April Joy Vergara, Research Assistant at the Department of Biotechnology, Visayas State University (VSU) shares their expertise on key topics such as biotechnology concepts, biomedical research design, proposal writing, ethical, and biosafety considerations in health research.
Participants from hospitals, higher education institutions, and partner organizations across Eastern Visayas engage in interactive sessions, group workshops, and research proposal presentations, allowing them to apply their learning and collaborate with peers in a dynamic research environment.
The three-day training-workshop fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence, reflecting EVHRDC’s ongoing commitment to enhancing regional research capacity and promoting health research initiatives that contribute to both regional and national development goals.
In line with this initiative, EVHRDC is opening its Call for Proposals for Biotechnology and Biomedical Research starting today, October 27, 2025, until November 27, 2025. Interested researchers are encouraged to visit the EVHRDC website and official Facebook page for details on the call and submission guidelines.
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- Written by Vincent Jay Bato, DOST VIII - EVHRDC
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EVHRDC Ethics Review Committee Holds Seminar-Workshop on Developing Technically- and Ethically-Sound Research Proposals
December 10, 2025 | Hotel de Fides, Tacloban City
The Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC), through its Ethics Review Committee (ERC), conducted the Seminar-Workshop on Developing a Technically- and Ethically-Sound Research Proposal on December 10, 2025 at Hotel de Fides, Tacloban City. The activity aimed to enhance the capacity of researchers from EVHRDC member institutions by deepening their understanding of ethical principles, ERC review procedures, and best practices in preparing research protocols.
Strengthening Ethical and Technical Research Capacities
EVHRDC Director Dr. Lucia P. Dauz delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of ethics and methodological rigor in generating quality health research that supports evidence-based decision-making in the region.
The lecture sessions began with Mr. Jeremy V. Jusay, EVHRDC Secretary, who provided an overview of the EVHRDC ERC processes, timelines, and documentary requirements for applying for ethics clearance. He also introduced the ERC forms used in evaluation.
This was followed by a series of presentations from distinguished EVHRDC ERC members:
- Atty. Alma Sonia Q. Sanchez-Danday (Leyte Normal University), EVHRDC ERC Chair, discussed Ethical Principles in the Conduct of Health Research.
- Dr. Sarah B. Delorino (University of Eastern Philippines), EVHRDC-ERC Vice Chair, presented the ERC Protocol Evaluation Process and related review forms.
- Ms. Noreen S. Buhat (St. Joseph College), EVHRDC- ERC Member, delivered a comprehensive discussion on the ICF Evaluation Process and the required ICF evaluation templates.
The lecture proper concluded with Mr. Jusay presenting common issues frequently encountered during ERC reviews, including recurring gaps in research documentation, protocol clarity, and informed consent completeness.
Workshop Proper and Group Outputs
Participants were grouped according to their institutions and given sample research protocols to evaluate. Assuming the role of ERC reviewers, each group assessed the assigned protocol using the a standard protocol and ICF evaluation forms.
Each group was later given the opportunity to present their outputs, fostering peer learning and strengthening participants’ understanding of how ERC members critically review research submissions.
Participants and Rationale for Selection
The first batch of participants came from institutions with the highest number of ERC-reviewed protocols in the past 2 years, including:
- UPM-SHS
- St. Scholastica’s College of Tacloban, Inc.
- Leyte Normal University
- Eastern Visayas State University
- Mother of Mercy Hospital
- UP Tacloban
- Visayas State University
- St. Joseph College
- Doña Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Educational Foundation, Inc.
- Divine Word Hospital
Their participation aimed to help improve the quality and compliance of future submissions coming from these institutions.
Closing the Session and Next Steps
The activity was synthesized by EVHRDC ERC Member Mr. Emmanuel Antonio Lim of Commision on Higher Education-Region VIII, who provided a recap of key learning points and highlighted the role of institutions in strengthening ethical research culture. The workshop formally concluded with the closing message delivered by ERC Chair Atty. Alma Sonia Q. Sanchez-Danday.
A second batch of this seminar-workshop is scheduled for 2025, continuing EVHRDC’s commitment to raising the standards of health research in Eastern Visayas.
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- Written by Vincent Jay Bato, DOST VIII - EVHRDC
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CALL FOR ENTRIES | 2025 Regional Health Research Symposium Competitions
November 11–12, 2025 at the 
Summit Hotel, Tacloban City, for this year’s much-awaited symposium featuring three major competitions:
Oral Research Paper Presentation (Professional and Student Categories)
Research Poster Exhibit Contest (Professional and Student Categories)
Three-Minute Pitch to Policymakers Competition
Submit your entries electronically to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Scan the QR code below to view or download the competition guidelines and the 2023–2028 Regional Unified Health Research Agenda (RUHRA).
