DAVAO CITY – The Davao de Oro State College Research Ethics Committee (DdOSC-REC) was recognized as a Regional Qualifier for the Gawad Lingkod Bayani under the Gawad Pagasa (Group Category) during the 2026 Gawad Lingkod Bayani Awarding Ceremony on September 15, 2026.

The recognition places DdOSC-REC among the outstanding groups in Davao Region cited by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for exemplary performance, dedication to public service, and meaningful contributions to their respective agencies and communities.

Furthermore, the CSC Regional Office XI specifically commended the committee for its “outstanding performance, unwavering dedication to public service, and meaningful contributions” that distinguished it among this year’s nominees.

DdOSC-REC, the only Level II-accredited Research Ethics Committee in the region, serves as the College’s institutional mechanism for ensuring that research involving human participants adheres to established ethical standards and safeguards the rights, dignity, safety, and well-being of research participants.

Present during the awarding ceremony were DdOSC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay, DdOSC-REC Chairperson Dr. Juanita C. Leopoldo, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Gloryjean C. Altamera, Human Resources Management Unit Head Reah C. Niog, and DdOSC-REC regular members Dr. Rholey R. Picaza and Dr. Jeson N. Geroche.

In her message, Dr. Matunhay, former DdOSC-REC chairperson who helped establish the committee, expressed gratitude to the individuals who contributed to its growth and accomplishments through the years.

“Looking back, this recognition is a testament to the collective dedication of everyone who helped build and strengthen the DdOSC-REC from its beginnings to what it is today,” Dr. Matunhay shared.

Notably, the DdOSC-REC was listed alongside the DdO Youth Development Team of the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro among the regional qualifiers for the Gawad Pagasa Group Category.

The awarding ceremony also recognized regional qualifiers and semifinalists under the different categories of the Gawad Lingkod Bayani, including the Gawad Pagasa, Gawad Dangal ng Bayan, and Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo.