Events

The Seminar-Workshop on Basic OMICS in Health introduces researchers to the principles and applications of OMICS technologies, including genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, in understanding health and disease mechanisms. This face-to-face activity enhances regional capacity in molecular research and bioinformatics, encouraging innovation and multidisciplinary collaboration among participating institutions. It also supports the consortium’s long-term goal of integrating advanced technologies into local health research and development initiatives.

The 14th MIMAROPA Health Research Forum, held on September 10–12, 2025 at Hue Hotels, Puerto Princesa City, gathered researchers, faculty members, and students under the theme: “Advancing MIMAROPA’s Health Research for Sustainable Development.” Hosted by Palawan State University and organized by MHRDC, the forum featured: Oral Paper Presentations Research Poster Competitions Knowledge-sharing sessions Expert keynote address Dr. Erlinda Palaganas delivered an inspiring keynote message emphasizing equity-driven, community-centered research aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event concluded with awarding outstanding researchers from regional State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), reinforcing MHRDC’s commitment to translating research into meaningful and sustainable regional impact.

The Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week is a national platform that highlights excellence in health research, innovation, and collaboration across the country. The MHRDC delegation—composed of consortium executives, secretariat members, committee chairs, and competition finalists—proudly represented the region during the 18th PNHRS Week Celebration, held on August 13–15, 2025 at Marison Hotel, Legazpi City, Albay. Achievements and Recognitions The Consortium earned multiple distinctions during the event: 1st Place – Oral Research Presentation CompetitionEngr. Dayne N. FradejasStudy: “Optimizing Polyp Detection in Colonoscopy Using Deep Learning for Adenoma-Carcinoma Sequence Identification” People’s Choice Award – Consortium PosterDesigned and presented by Ms. Danielle Marie M. Martos3-Minute Pitch to Policymakers Competition RepresentativeMs. Lea Camangeg (Palawan State University)Study: “Herbal Extracts from Palawan for Bioactivity and Toxicity Assays” Top 10 – Research Poster ContestEngr. Alvin John BreciaStudy: “Hulas-Lunas Device: Design and Development of a Portable Iontophoresis for Hyperhidrosis” The event strengthened national collaboration and reaffirmed MHRDC’s commitment to research excellence and innovation.

The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) celebrated its 43rd Anniversary on March 17, 2025 at Sheraton Hotel, Pasay City. Representing the Consortium were: Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani Former Regional Director Ma. Josefina P. Abilay The celebration featured a keynote address by DOH Secretary Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa and a plenary session titled: “Towards a Mutually Beneficial Partnership: Understanding Policies and Strategies in Health Research Utilization.” The event highlighted strengthened partnerships in advancing research utilization nationwide.

The 13th Health Research Forum was held on October 28–30, 2024 at Horizon Hotel, Romblon, Romblon. Call for Abstracts The Consortium issued a Call for Abstracts from September 2 to 23, 2024, receiving a strong regional response. Abstract Submissions Received: 77 Total Oral Paper (Professional Category): 26 Oral Paper (Student Category): 26 Poster Presentation (Professional Category): 9 Poster Presentation (Student Category): 16 Participating institutions included: Palawan State University (PSU) Romblon State University (RSU) Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC) Western Philippines University (WPU) The overwhelming participation reflected the growing culture of research engagement and scholarly excellence within the region.

The MIMAROPA Health Research and Development Consortium actively participated in the 17th PNHRS Week, held on August 13–16, 2024 at Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, with the theme: “Leveraging Global Networks in Advancing the National Health Research System.” DELEGATION The MHRDC delegation included consortium leadership, committee chairs, and competition finalists representing various member institutions. HIGHLIGHTS 3rd Place – Consortium Poster Contest       Ms. Danielle Marie Martos People’s Choice Award – Research Poster (Professional Category)       Dr. Enya Marie D. Apostol (Mindoro State University) Participation in the 17th PNHRS Week provided valuable opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and national visibility of MIMAROPA research initiatives.

The 42nd PCHRD Anniversary was held on March 25, 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). MHRDC representatives included: Former Regional Director Ma. Josefina P. Abilay (DOST-MIMAROPA) Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani (Romblon State University) During the event, Liu Kzean Fabregas, a student of RSU Laboratory Science High School, received the People’s Choice Award in the 2024 Capture the Heart Research Photo Contest II.