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- Written by Ms. Geselle P. Zeta, DEPDev VIII
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- Written by Sheriah Faith C. Labid, Samar State University
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Tacloban City, Leyteย - June 4, 2026 - Samar State University (SSU), through the Office of the Executive Director for Research, conducted a collaborative meeting with the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) Region VIII at the PITAHC Regional Office, Brgy. 93 Bagacay, Tacloban City, to finalize two proposed research projects aimed at generating evidence to support the integration of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine into healthcare systems and practices
The meeting focused on the refinement and finalization of the following proposed studies:
1. โAcceptability and Utilization of Traditional Medicine among Barangay Health Workers in Samar Province, Philippinesโ
2. โComparison of Reliance on Conventional Medicine and Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) in Cancer Treatment.โ
Representing PITAHC Region VIII were Ms. Josephine L. Hipe, Special Operations Officer; Ms. Janice A. Alota, Administrative Officer; Dr. Ma. Venus K. Apolonio, Pharmacist VI and Plant Manager of the Tacloban Herbal Pharmaceutical Processing and Manufacturing Plant; and Ms. Cherrylyn C. Apurillo, Pharmacist IV.
From Samar State University, the meeting was attended by Dr. Sherrie Ann Cananua-Labid, Executive Director for Research and Principal Investigator of the proposed projects, and Mr. Michael Hendrix Casama, Research Staff.
During the meeting, both institutions discussed the objectives and significance of the proposed studies, the rationale for selecting the target respondents, expected research outputs, potential policy implications, and possible funding mechanisms. Particular emphasis was placed on generating evidence that can inform future health programs and policies related to traditional medicine, as well as strengthening public awareness and acceptance of scientifically supported traditional and complementary healthcare practices.
The proposed study on Barangay Health Workers seeks to establish baseline data on the prevalence, acceptability, and utilization of traditional medicine in Samar Province, while the second study aims to examine the experiences and treatment preferences of cancer patients with regard to conventional medicine and Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM).
The collaborative engagement reflects the shared commitment of SSU and PITAHC to advancing research, preserving indigenous health knowledge, and promoting evidence-based traditional and alternative healthcare practices. It also opens opportunities for future partnerships in research, capacity-building initiatives, and policy development that contribute to the goals of Universal Health Care and the promotion of culturally responsive health services.
Through this partnership, Samar State University continues to strengthen its role as a research institution committed to addressing local and national health priorities while contributing to the growing body of knowledge on traditional and integrative medicine in the Philippines.
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- Written by Vincent Jay Bato, DOST VIII - EVHRDC
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ย
Sharing this opportunity for undergraduate researchers.
The DOST-PCHRD is now accepting applications for the 2026 Undergraduate Thesis Grant in Natural Products (1st Call),ย offering up to โฑ75,000 in funding forย qualified Third(3rd) and Fourth(4th) year students in health and allied science programs whose thesis focuses on indigenous plants or microorganisms with potential health applications.ย
The deadline for submission through your Regional Health Research and Development Consortium is April 30, 2026.
For more details and access to the proposal forms, visit:ย bit.ly/NatProdGrant2026_1stcall
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- Written by Rudith A. Roca, Research Utilization Committee, DILG ROVIII
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The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office VIII is taking significant strides in promoting health and wellness in the workplace through its commitment and support to DOH-CSC-DOLE Joint Administrative Order (JAO) No. 2023-0001ย providing for the National Policy Framework on the Promotion of Healthy Workplaces.
Among the pioneer regional agencies in Eastern Visayas to implement this national endeavor, DILG 8 aims to foster a healthier and more productive work environment, underscoring the importance of employee well-being in achieving organizational success and community development.
The national framework is intended for promotion, establishment, and strengthening of Healthy Workplaces in support of the implementation of the Universal Health Care Law. It sets directions and provides key strategies to guide the implementation of settings-based health promotion policies, plans, and programs for the Filipino workforce. The framework also identifies the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in the promotion of healthy workplaces, including national government agencies and local government units.
At present, DILG RO VIII focuses on the following key initiatives in the promotion of a healthy workplace; (1) Health and Wellness Programs, (2) Safe Work Environment, (3) Mental Health Support, and (4) Employee Engagement and Education.
Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe emphasizes the importance of leadership in promoting a healthy workplace culture. "Our leaders play a crucial role in setting an example and creating an environment where health and wellness are prioritized. By investing in our employees' well-being, we are also investing in the quality of service we provide to our communities."
DILG Regional Office VIII is closely working with the Department of Health for an improved implementation and holistic monitoring and evaluation of these initiatives. The Office also assists the DOH in coordinating the implementation of the program to local government units in the region.
