BukSU Research Ethics Committee members complete two-day ethics training

Existing members and newly appointed Cluster members of the Bukidnon State University Research Ethics Committee (BukSU REC) completed a two-day Basic Research Ethics Training on March 9–10, 2026.

The activity was conducted by BukSU REC in partnership with the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board – Committee on Information Dissemination, Training, and Advocacy (PHREB-CIDTA).

The training provided participants with foundational knowledge and competencies related to ethical research governance. It was organized for newly appointed Cluster REC members and current committee members involved in reviewing research involving human participants.

Sessions on the principles and foundations of research ethics were facilitated by Ricardo M. Manalastas Jr., chairperson of the National Ethics Committee of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and chairperson of the Committee on Information Dissemination, Training and Advocacy of the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board.

The discussions included the historical development of research ethics and the protection of the rights, safety, and welfare of research participants. Topics also covered the assessment of risks and benefits in research, informed consent procedures, and fairness in selecting research participants. During the training, REC members also worked on developing an ethical research protocol.

Maria Elinore A. Concha, chief training officer of the Southern Philippine Medical Center (SPMC), led sessions on the governance and operational aspects of research ethics. The discussions addressed issues in research practice, including pressures related to the publish-or-perish culture and the use of artificial intelligence in research.

Brenda G. Caballero, chair of the BukSU Research Ethics Committee, said the training forms part of the university’s work on ethical research practices.

“This training ensures that our REC members are equipped with the knowledge and competencies needed to effectively review research involving human participants. It reinforces BukSU’s commitment to responsible research practices and the protection of research participants,” Caballero said.

“Through this initiative, Bukidnon State University continues to enhance its research governance and promote a culture of integrity, accountability, and ethical responsibility in the conduct of research,” she added. (Jessabell Q. Cabada/ Head, Research Services Management Staff)