Perspectives and Gains in Health Research VII: Promoting Research-Driven Action
Opening Ceremony and Research Congress
Maria Carla E. Buenaflor, MD DPDS
Department of Dermatology
The University of the Philippines–Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) marked its 30th Annual Research Week from October 13 to 17, 2025, with the theme “Perspectives and Gains in Health Research VII: Promoting Research-Driven Action.” The week-long celebration underscored the significance of research in advancing clinical practice, promoting collaboration, and driving innovation across diverse medical disciplines.
The Opening Ceremony was held on October 13, 2025, at the UPMASA PGH Science Hall, graced by key officials, faculty, researchers, and trainees. Dr. Claudine Yap Silva, Vice Chair for Training of the Department of Dermatology, delivered the Welcome Remarks, emphasizing the role of research in shaping better patient outcomes and encouraging residents to pursue evidence-based practice.
UP Manila Vice Chancellor for Research Dr. Leslie Michelle Dalmacio followed with an inspiring message that underscored the integration of research and public service, particularly in addressing the country’s most pressing health challenges. PGH Director Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi then highlighted the institutional commitment to nurturing a culture of inquiry and continuous improvement among PGH clinicians and staff.
Dr. Belen L. Dofitas, PGH Coordinator for Research, provided an Orientation to the PGH Research Week, outlining the week’s objectives and encouraging participation across departments. The Keynote Address was delivered by Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-de la Paz, Head of the UP-PGH Center for Precision Health and Medicine, who spoke about translating research findings into actionable public health strategies. She emphasized that research must not end at publication—it must lead to tangible health impact.
During the ceremony, the recognition of the PGH Regular Research Grantees was also held, honoring the dedication and commitment of researchers whose work continues to elevate PGH’s research landscape. The morning program concluded with the Awarding of Certificates to the keynote speaker, followed by the Announcement of the 2025 Visual Abstract Winners by Dr. Maria Christina Filomena R. Batac, Vice Chair for Research of the Department of Dermatology, and the Announcement of the 22 recipients of the 2025 PGH Research Grants by Dr. Belen L. Dofitas.
Before the start of the PGH Research Congress, the audience witnessed the launch of the PGH Research Website, presented by Dr. Angela Jimenez, PGH Coordinator for Health IT Development. The new platform aims to centralize information on research activities, promote visibility of ongoing studies, and foster collaboration within and beyond the institution.
Following the opening ceremony, the Research Congress commenced at 10:30 AM, also at the UPMASA PGH Science Hall. Dr. Belen L. Dofitas formally opened the session, which featured PGHx Talks—a series of short, high-impact presentations about the research journeys and insights from UP-PGH faculty members.
Dr. Nathaniel S. Orillaza Jr. (Department of Orthopedics) opened with “Why Me?”—a reflection on the personal motivations behind pursuing meaningful research. Dr. Belen L. Dofitas (Department of Dermatology) followed with “Serendipity,” where she discussed how curiosity, collaboration, and chance encounters often lead to transformative discoveries. Prof. Nina T. Castillo-Carandang (Department of Clinical Epidemiology) closed the talks with “Context Matters,” a reminder that ethical, patient-centered research must always be grounded in local realities.
A lively Q&A session, moderated by Dr. Maria Christina Filomena R. Batac, allowed participants to engage directly with the speakers, drawing valuable lessons on perseverance, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The session concluded with the Awarding of Certificates by PGH Director Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi and Closing Remarks by Dr. Marie Dione P. Sacdalan, Head of the Integrated Training and Research Unit (ITRU).
Through this year’s theme, “Promoting Research-Driven Action,” the 30th Annual PGH Research Week reaffirmed the institution’s mission to bridge the gap between discovery and application. By celebrating both the science and the stories behind it, PGH continues to empower its community to turn knowledge into meaningful health impact for Filipinos.
Dr. Belen L. Dofitas, PGH Coordinator for Research, oriented participants on the upcoming PGH Research Week. She highlighted the exciting line-up of activities prepared for the event. Her talk set the tone for a week of research-driven learning and collaboration.
Dr. Leslie Michelle Dalmacio (UP Manila Vice Chancellor for Research), Dr. Gerardo Legaspi (PGH Director), Keynote Speaker Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-de la Paz (Head of the UP-PGH Center for Precision Health and Medicine), Dr. Belen Dofitas (PGH Coordinator for Research), Dr Claudine Yap-Silva (Training Officer, Department of Dermatology – Lead Department), Dr. Charlotte Chiong (Dean, UP College of Medicine), and Dr. Dione Sacdalan (Head, PGH Integrated Training and Research Unit)
Launch of the PGH Research website, presented by Dr. Angela Jimenez, PGH Coordinator for Health IT Development
One of the highlights of the Opening Ceremony held on October 13 was the announcement of the Visual Abstract Contest winners. The contest, organized by the Department of Dermatology in collaboration with the Expanded Hospital Research Office, showcased creativity and scientific communication. The competition took place on October 11, 2025, ahead of the Research Week celebration.
One of the most anticipated segments of the Research Congress was the PGHx Talks, featuring esteemed researchers Dr. Nathaniel S. Orillaza Jr., Dr. Belen L. Dofitas, and Dr. Nina T. Castillo-Carandang. In this photo, the three speakers are seen engaging with the audience during the Question and Answer session. Their insightful discussions inspired participants to pursue meaningful, context-driven research.
