To fully capacitate its faculty and staff in reviewing, approving, and monitoring research involving human participants, the Davao de Oro State College, through the Research Ethics Committee (DDOSC-REC), conducted the Basic Research Ethics Training on October 24-25, 2024, via Zoom Teleconference.

38 DDOSC teaching and non-teaching personnel, one Local Youth Development Officer, and one Municipal Social Welfare Development Officer took part in the capacitating initiative, which aimed to equip them with a foundational understanding of research ethics principles.

In her message, SUC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay emphasized that ethical considerations are at the heart of every research endeavor conducted in the institution. She added that it is the DDOSC-REC’s duty to protect the rights and dignity of research participants, particularly the vulnerable.

The training featured notable research ethics experts, including Dr. Lucila T. Lupo, Vice Chair of the Regional Ethics Monitoring Board (REMB) XI, and Dr. Felix C. Chavez, Jr., former President of Jose Maria College and Brokenshire College. Both experts guided participants through several interactive workshops, sharing their knowledge and practical insights on ethical research practices.

Organized by the DDOSC-REC, the event was made possible in collaboration with the DDOSC Production Services Division, Regional Ethics Monitoring Board XI, and the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board (PHREB).

Furthermore, the activity was also officially sanctioned by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development Philippine Health Research Ethics Board (DOST-PCHRD).

Key topics covered during the training included Research Ethics Principles, Protecting Vulnerable Populations in Research, and National and International Research Ethics Guidelines.

Chaired by Dr. Rona C. Apolinario, the DDOSC-REC is currently granted Level 2 Accreditation status by the PHREB.