Strengthening research capacity and collaboration for data-driven health reform.
Manila, Philippines — October 1, 2025.
The University of the Cordilleras – College of Nursing (UC-CON) proudly represented the institution at the National Symposium on “Advancing UHC in the Philippines through Evidence Synthesis”, held at the Frassati Auditorium, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Building, University of Santo Tomas, España, Manila.
Representing UC-CON were BSN Level III students, accompanied by Dr. Sheila Maria G. Batoon, Research Coordinator, and Mr. Gilbert D. Bernardino Jr., Faculty Member. They were joined by representatives from the Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science (BSMLS) program — Program Chair Dr. Jowelyn B. Raja and Board Examination Coordinator Mr. Reuben Victor M. Laguitan — underscoring UC’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing evidence-based health education and research.
About the Symposium
The event was jointly organized by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) at the University of Adelaide, the De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute, and the Center for Health Research and Movement Science at the University of Santo Tomas.
The symposium formed part of the Health Workforce Development in Evidence Synthesis Fellowship, an Australia Awards–supported initiative aimed at building the capacity of Filipino researchers and clinicians to conduct systematic reviews that inform policy, clinical practice, and the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC) in the Philippines.
Throughout the program, Fellows presented their evidence synthesis projects on community health, telehealth, digital health, and rehabilitation interventions, highlighting how evidence-based research can drive improvements in healthcare accessibility, quality, and outcomes.
Keynote Highlights
Two distinguished keynote speakers led the symposium:
- Dr. Jaime C. Montoya, Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), emphasized the importance of linking research evidence with actionable health programs to strengthen the country’s UHC implementation.
- Dr. Leonila F. Dans, Primary Convenor of the Philippine Consortium for Evidence Synthesis and Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs), discussed institutionalizing evidence synthesis in policymaking to ensure sustainable, data-driven healthcare reform.
Both speakers underscored the role of research, innovation, and collaboration in shaping a resilient and equitable Philippine health system.
UC-CON’s Commitment to Sustainable Health Development
UC-CON’s participation in this national gathering reflects its dedication to nursing excellence, research leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. By contributing to evidence-informed discussions that shape national and global health initiatives, UC-CON reinforces its mission to promote science-based practice and health equity.
Through continued engagement in evidence synthesis and policy-driven research, UC-CON actively supports the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law and advances several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Alignment
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being
Target 3.c: Substantially increase health financing and the development, training, and retention of the health workforce.
SDG 4 – Quality Education
Target 4.7: Ensure that learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development and health literacy.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade technological capabilities, and encourage innovation in developing countries.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, private, and civil-society partnerships in advancing sustainable development.
