TACLOBAN CITY, August 22 - The recently concluded Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week Celebration, held from August 8 to 11, 2023 at the Summit Hotel, Tacloban City, became a shining beacon for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals alike. One of the highlights of the event was the fiercely competitive series of oral and poster research competitions that showcased exceptional research capabilities within the nation's academic and medical sectors.
In the Research Poster Contest's student category, a triumphant display of ingenuity and dedication was witnessed as talented individuals presented their groundbreaking works. The competition's top honoree, Mr. Prince Eroll V. Reyes from Region X's Iligan Medical Center College, claimed the 1st Place Winner and Champion title. His work, titled "Development of an X-ray Shielding Material Based on Eggshells and Crab Shells," illuminated the potential of innovative materials in advancing healthcare technology.
Second place was secured by Ms. Rhea Ann Kate P. Imperial from CAR's University of the Philippines Baguio. Her research on "Signature Immune-Related Genes Associated with HIV-Infected Immunological Non-Responders and AIDS", highlighted critical insights into the immune response to HIV infection.
The 3rd Place Winner, Mr. Philippe Bernard L. Obeso from Region VII's Silliman University, with his study on "Tuberculosis Program Indicators and Treatment Delay before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic and Healthcare Workers' Compliance to NTP Adaptive Plan in Talisay City, Cebu," underscored the intricate interplay between healthcare service disruptions and pandemic realities.
The coveted People's Choice Award went to Mr. Prince Eroll V. Reyes once more, affirming the significance of his work on X-ray shielding material development.
In the Professional Category of the Research Poster Contest, Ms. Jibe Labenz L. Nebato, hailing from Region X's Iligan Medical Center College, clinched the 1st Place Winner and Champion position for her study, "PLANTastic Treasures: The Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Anticancer Potential of Subanen and Mamanwa Traditional Medicinal Plants." Her research illuminated the potential of traditional knowledge in modern healthcare.
Mr. Khent Ivan M. Duerme from Region XI's University of the Philippines Mindanao achieved the 2nd Place Winner title for his work on "Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Bignay (Antidesma bunius) Leaf Extract and Their Antimicrobial Properties Against Common Foodborne Pathogens," showcasing the application of nanotechnology in food safety.
Securing the 3rd Place Winner spot was Faith L. Malecdan, MD, from CAR's Baguio General Hospital Medical Center (BGHMC), whose research on "Immunoglobulin G Antibody Response After CoronaVac Initial Series and Heterologous Booster" offered insights into COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity.
The discerning audience awarded the People's Choice Award to Mr. Khent Ivan M. Duerme once more, for his innovative work on silver nanoparticle synthesis.
The Oral Research Paper Presentation segment celebrated both student and professional researchers who shared their findings with eloquence and passion. Among the student category, Mr. Emerson Paul D. Somontan from Region X's Iligan Medical Center College clinched the 1st Place Winner accolade for his presentation on "Development of an X-ray Shielding Material Based on Eggshells and Crab Shells."
Ms. Laiza Joy B. Dasalla from CALABARZON's University of Perpetual Help captivated the audience with her research on "Pharmacognostic Characterization of Ulasimang Bato (Peperomia pellucida L.) Mucilage as a Preformulation Suspending Agent in Aluminum Hydroxide Suspension," earning her the 2nd Place Winner distinction.
Mr. Kenneth John P. Chavez from Region V's Partido State University, who examined the "Anti-Hyperglycemic Activity of Talahib (Saccharum spontaneum Linn.) Ethanolic Stalk Extract in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Mice," clinched the 3rd Place Winner title.
In the Professional Category of the Oral Research Paper Presentation, Dr. Virginia S. Ariza from Region VIII's Holy Infant College clinched the 1st Place Winner position for her research on the "Project B.U.H.A.T. (Babies Under Heat-Assisted Technology)-Kangaroo Mother Assistive Device."
The 2nd Place Winner title was secured by Ms. Julia Theresa A. Regalado from Region VI's University of the Philippines Visayas for her work on "Whole Genome Sequencing and Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Genome in Samples Collected from The Lung Center of the Philippines."
Dr. Marilou M. Saong from CAR's University of Baguio claimed the 3rd Place Winner accolade for her research on "Analysis of Arsenic Levels in Rice (Oryza sativa) and Water Samples from Barangay Lucnab, Baguio City, Philippines."
The 3-Minute Pitch Policymakers Competition saw a blend of compelling ideas and concise communication. Mr. Halid Tamano from Region IX's Zamboanga City Medical Center emerged as the 1st Place Winner and Champion, presenting his concept on "Resiliency Building: Enhancing Occupational Health and Safety for ER Nurses."
Prof. Danica Resuello from NCR's Adamson University earned the 2nd Place Winner recognition for her innovative "Development of 'YourRx' Telepharmacy Application: A Facility-Based Pilot Study."
The 3rd Place Winner, Mr. Eduard Paul Paca from Region VIII's DOH Eastern Visayas, emphasized "Infection Prevention and Control: At War with the Invisible Enemy."
The People's Choice Award was bestowed upon Dr. Krista Angela Muralla from Region V's Bicol Medical Center, lauding her idea of "Why Give Two When One Will Do?"
The PNHRS Week Celebration offered a glimpse into the remarkable minds shaping the future of healthcare and research. These competitions not only recognized exceptional accomplishments, but also ignited inspiration for further exploration and innovation. As these winners continue to push boundaries, their works will undoubtedly contribute to a brighter and healthier tomorrow. (SCL)
