The second plenary session of the 17th Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week entitled, “Capacitating Networks Through Collaborations in Health Research,” dives into enhancing health research capabilities through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives. The session brought speakers to discuss how collaboration across various sectors—academic institutions, government bodies, private industries, and international entities—can advance health research in the Philippines, with a focus on achieving Universal Health Care (UHC).

Dr. Eva Cutiongco-De La Paz, Executive Director of the National Institutes of Health at the University of the Philippines Manila, emphasized the transformative potential of partnerships that focus on innovation. “Partnerships that prioritize innovation are fundamental for elevating the quality of health research and translating findings into actionable health solutions,” she said. Dr. Cutiongco-De La Paz detailed the various types of research collaborations, including those with academic institutions, government entities, private industries, and international researchers.  

Dr. Cutiongco-De La Paz explained, “These partnerships not only enhance creativity and access to resources but also contribute to skills development and increased visibility of health research initiatives.” Specific examples like the ASEAN Dx initiative and the Regional Health Research and Development Consortia were highlighted as key contributors to advancing health research that supports UHC objectives in the region.

Building on the theme of collaboration, Dr. Alma S. Patron, Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Regional Director at the Commission on Higher Education Caraga, discussed the intricate process of establishing regional medical schools in the Philippines. Dr. Patron underscored the alignment of the Medical Scholarship and Return Service Program with national development strategies, noting that “The program is in line with Ambisyon Natin 2040 and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, aiming to promote healthy lives and quality education.”

She also highlighted the challenges in evaluating and funding medical schools, stressing the need for substantial seed funds and infrastructure to ensure long-term success. Dr. Patron’s discussion tied back to the broader goal of UHC, illustrating how regional medical schools could play an important part in enhancing healthcare access and quality education, particularly in underserved regions.

Transitioning from public sector efforts to private sector engagement, Dr. Jaemin Park, Managing Director of Heal Venture Lab, discussed opportunities to accelerate health research through capacity-building initiatives and strategic partnerships with the private sector. Dr. Park pointed out that most research and development activities in the Philippines are still at the ideation stage, with many projects struggling to advance due to limited private capital. 

“The Philippines must carve out its niche in the increasingly competitive biomedical industry,” Dr. Park stated, emphasizing the need for increased investment in research facilities and regulatory support for local innovations. He also proposed various funding structures, such as First-Loss Equity Venture Funds and Non-Dilutive Grant Programs, designed to attract investment and reduce risk for investors. Dr. Park argued that the country could enhance its global competitiveness while advancing local health research through positioning the Philippines as a regional hub for biomedical research, particularly in clinical trials.

Written by: Ranz Elifred Valdez