The Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) recognized the region’s brightest minds at the concluded Regional Health Research Symposium (RHRS) held on October 30-31, 2024 at Summit Hotel in Tacloban City. The event honored innovative research contributions through its Oral and Poster Research Competitions, highlighting efforts from students and professionals alike.
Top Honors in Oral Research Presentation
The Oral Research Paper Presentation served as a platform for showcasing comprehensive and impactful studies in health research. Winners in the Student Category included:
- Mr. TJ Ian Marie E. Lawas, University of the Philippines Manila-SHS (UPM-SHS) – First Place
- Ms. Shielo C. Ofong, UPM-SHS – Second Place
- Ms. Sheena Jane S. Salva, Visayas State University (VSU) Main Campus – Third Place
In the Professional Category, seasoned researchers impressed the judges with their rigorous and relevant studies. The winners were:
- Dr. Chelsea S. De Leon – Oyales, Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) – First Place
- Ms. Anna Lisa C. Babon, Department of Health (DOH) VIII – Second Place
- Dr. Mary Bernadette V. Egloso-Alas, EVMC – Third Place
Breakthroughs in Research Posters
Visual storytelling took center stage in the Research Poster Contest, participants presented creative and insightful summaries of their work. In the Student Category, the winners were:
- Ms. Ma. Mariel D. Gelizon, VSU Main Camous – First Place
- Ms. Rhyza Angela S. Magallanes, VSU Main Campus – Second Place
- Ms. Althea Denise D. Paquibo, VSU Main Campus – Third Place
The Professional Category showcased exemplary research posters from:
- Dr. Ralph John Gil Labaclado, EMVC and DOH VIII – First Place
- Dr. Leovin John Avecilla, DOH VIII – Second Place
- Dr. Donabel B. Dacuro, DOH VIII – Third Place
Special Awards
Recognizing outstanding achievements, the symposium conferred the Best Paper award to Ms. Anna Lisa C. Babon for her exemplary contribution to health research literature. The Best Presenter title was awarded to Dr. Chelsea S. De Leon - Oyales, who captivated the judges with her delivery and depth of knowledge.
Judging Excellence
The winners were carefully selected by an esteemed panel of judges, including Dr. Joyce Rosario A. Matoza – Serna (Chairperson), Ms. Ghelvin Auriele C. Aguirre, Dr. Fidelita D. Dico, and Dr. Meredith D. Labarda for the oral presentations. For the poster contest, judges included Ms. Marilyn O. Radam (Chairperson), Dr. Katerina N. Abiertas, and Sr. John Mary P. Fornillos.
Honoring Innovation and Dedication
This year’s winners embody the EVHRDC’s mission of fostering innovation and collaboration in health research. Their achievements underscore the region’s commitment to addressing public health challenges through science and creativity. With these trailblazers leading the way, the future of health research in Eastern Visayas looks exceptionally bright.
