On 18 June 2024, the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium-Research Utilization Committee (EVHRDC-RUC) gathered virtually via Zoom to address crucial regional issues and strategies aimed at enhancing research impact and policy development.
Chaired by Dr. Sherrie Ann C. Labid from Samar State University, the meeting convened representatives from the Department of Education, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Biliran State University, and the National Economic and Development Authority. They discussed updates from previous meetings, reviewed a policy proposal, and outlined plans to translate research findings into actionable policies.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Labid emphasized the importance of utilizing research to improve public health outcomes and drive regional development.
A significant outcome was the decision to postpone the proposed incentive policy for completed research projects due to financial constraints within the consortium. Additionally, the Committee agreed to collaborate with the Leyte Provincial Government to share and potentially implement recommendations from Dr. Santiago T. Pena, Jr.'s research on antibiotic residues in meat products. The Secretariat also announced efforts to publish abstracts of completed EVHRDC-funded projects on the consortium's website (https://region8.healthresearch.ph/), aiming to enhance transparency and knowledge sharing.
Looking forward, EVHRDC-RUC plans to invite Dr. Pena to present his findings at the upcoming Leyte Provincial Development Council meeting, aiming to foster collaboration and practical application of research insights.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to advancing research utilization efforts and strengthening partnerships with local stakeholders and academic institutions to shape evidence-based policies across Eastern Visayas.
