Marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to ensure that brain health becomes a central focus of the country’s health research priorities, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) officially launched the Philippine Brain Research Agenda (PBRA) 2024-2028 today, 15 August 2024, during the 17th Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week at Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City.

“Research and development in mental health primarily focused on psychological and social dimensions. While these areas are undeniably important, there is an equally vital component of MH that demands our attention: the biological aspect, particularly the brain,” emphasized Dr. Jaime C. Montoya, Executive Director of DOST-PCHRD and lead coordinator of PNHRS.

“In the Philippines, there is a pressing need to enhance research and application of science and technology, specifically advancing the emerging technologies in the field of neuroscience,” Dr. Montoya added.

The PBRA is a comprehensive research roadmap designed to address the pressing needs and gaps in the field of neuroscience in the Philippines, aligning with the broader National Unified Health Research Agenda (NUHRA) and the goals of the PNHRS, 

Highlighting key research priorities that will guide the allocation of resources and efforts in the coming years, the PBRA focuses on foundational research for brain health, such as molecular research and the development of disease models; epidemiological and clinical research on neurological conditions; and the integration of advanced and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and bioinformatics in neuroscience research.

The development of the PBRA was a collaborative effort involving national agencies, academic institutions, and healthcare professionals guided by a modified bottom-up approach, which included an extensive landscape review, stakeholder consultations, and the formation of a steering committee composed of experts in neuroscience and related fields. 

One of the agenda’s primary goals is to enhance the capacity of the Philippine health system by promoting brain health, addressing neurological conditions, and reducing health disparities. The PBRA seeks to empower researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to develop innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes and contribute to the overall well-being of the Filipino population.