“Partnerships in research has become an essential element for success in all sectors of science, including health research,” emphasized PCHRD Executive Director Jaime C. Montoya in his keynote message delivered by Ms. Merlita Opeña, Chief, Research Information Communication and Utilization Division of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development during the 2016 Central Visayas Health Research and Innovation Conference in Cebu City on 10 November 2016.  

From the experiences of the PCHRD, Dr. Montoya highlighted the crucial role of partnership in the Council’s successes. Dr. Montoya explained that PCHRD had worked with a diverse range of stakeholders whose perspectives and expertise contributed in the shared vision of research-based solutions and innovations. Dr. Montoya said, “For thirty-four years, the Council pushed the limits as we establish national, regional, and international partnerships to serve the Filipinos.”

For instance, the Central Visayas Consortium for Health Research and Development (CVCHRD) has been PCHRD’s partner since 1985 in linking together health researchers and institutions in the region. Because of CVCHRD, the Council was able to establish mechanisms to strengthen health research capabilities, encourage resource sharing between institutions, and disseminate and utilize health research results in the region.

Thankful to the efforts of CVCHRDC, Dr. Montoya assured that PCHRD will support the consortium’s initiatives in innovation and research for health in region 7. Dr. Montoya said, “I trust that the Consortium will maintain a steady resolve in finding ways to increase partnerships in research and innovation for health. Rest assured that the Council will be with you in your every step.”