PHREB Level 3 Accreditation Renewal

The Batangas Medical Center Research Ethics Review Committee (BatMC RERC) has successfully renewed its Level 3 Accreditation from the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board for a period of three (3) years. This accreditation is effective 12 October 2025 until 11 October 2028.

This recognition affirms the Committee’s continued compliance with national standards for ethical review and oversight of research involving human participants. The Level 3 Accreditation reflects the BatMC RERC’s strong commitment to upholding the highest principles of research ethics, safeguarding the rights, safety, and welfare of research participants, and ensuring that all research conducted under its review adheres to established ethical guidelines.

The BatMC RERC extends its sincere gratitude to the PHREB Accreditation Team for their guidance and support throughout the accreditation renewal process. This milestone further strengthens the Committee’s dedication to promoting ethical and responsible research practices within Batangas Medical Center and the broader research community.

FERCAP Recognition

The Batangas Medical Center Research Ethics Review Committee (BatMC RERC) is recognized by the Forum for Ethical Review Committees in the Asian and Western Pacific Region for its adherence to international standards in the ethical review of research involving human participants. This recognition highlights the Committee’s commitment to ethical guidelines, participant protection, and transparent research oversight.

In line with its continuous professional development, Dr. Deborah Castillo Aban, Chairperson of BatMC RERC, attended the 25th FERCAP International Conference held in Bangkok, Thailand. The hybrid conference, conducted from November 23–26, 2025, featured both face-to-face and online participation. The pre-conference was hosted at Siriraj Hospital, while the main conference venue was at Eastin Grand Hotel, Phayathai Road, Bangkok, Thailand, with the theme: "Ethics and Quality by Design: Challenges and Opportunities in Research and Health Practice."

The BatMC RERC extends its sincere gratitude to the FERCAP Accreditation Team for their guidance and support, and celebrates this opportunity for knowledge exchange, networking, and advancing ethical research practices at both regional and international levels.

MCC CHOICE AWARD

The Research Ethics Review Committee (RERC) of Batangas Medical Center (BATMC) was honored with the MCC Choice Award during the 2025 Gawad Balaraw: “Bawat Kawani, Namumukod-Tangi” awarding ceremony held on January 30, 2026 at the Batangas City Convention Center, Batangas City.

The award was presented as part of the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) of Batangas Medical Center. The Plaque of Recognition was conferred to the Research Ethics Review Committee in recognition of its outstanding contribution to promoting ethical standards in research and supporting the institution’s commitment to quality healthcare and responsible scientific practices.

Through its dedicated work in reviewing and evaluating research proposals involving human participants, the Committee ensures that all studies conducted within the institution adhere to ethical principles, regulatory requirements, and the protection of research participants. The recognition highlights the Committee’s continuous efforts in maintaining integrity, transparency, and excellence in the ethical review process.

This achievement was made possible under the leadership of Dr. Alfonso Syoei R. Yoshida and through the collective efforts and dedication of the RERC members, whose commitment to upholding ethical standards in research has greatly contributed to the advancement of responsible and quality scientific practices within the institution.

The award was signed and presented by Dr. Nilo V. Alcoreza, MD, Chairperson of the PRAISE Committee, and Dr. Maritess Teresita M. Torio, MD, Medical Center Chief II.

This recognition reflects the strong commitment, collaboration, and diligence of the Research Ethics Review Committee in upholding ethical research standards and supporting the advancement of evidence-based healthcare at Batangas Medical Center.

Medical Center Chief Choice Social-Impact Award

The Research Ethics Review Committee (RERC) of Batangas Medical Center was honored with the Medical Center Chief Choice Social-Impact Award during the Gawad Balaraw Award Ceremony held on December 17, 2021. The award was conferred by the Batangas Medical Center and the PRAISE Committee in recognition of the Committee’s significant contribution to promoting ethical research practices and generating positive social impact through research initiatives within the institution.

Under the leadership of Dr. Rhodora Madrid-Reyes, Chair of the Research Ethics Review Committee, and with the support of its dedicated members, the Committee has continuously strengthened its commitment to ensuring that all research conducted in the institution adheres to established ethical principles and regulatory requirements. Through their collective efforts, the Committee has actively promoted responsible research practices, safeguarded the rights, safety, and welfare of research participants, and guided researchers in conducting studies that contribute to the advancement of healthcare services and medical knowledge.

The RERC plays a crucial role in reviewing research protocols, providing ethical oversight, and monitoring approved studies to ensure compliance with national and institutional research ethics guidelines. These efforts help maintain the integrity, quality, and credibility of research conducted at Batangas Medical Center, while also encouraging studies that address relevant health issues affecting patients and the community.

This recognition highlights not only the strong leadership of Dr. Rhodora Madrid-Reyes but also the unwavering support, commitment, and dedication of the members of the Research Ethics Review Committee who work collaboratively to uphold the highest standards of ethical research. Their combined efforts have significantly contributed to fostering a culture of research integrity, accountability, and excellence within the institution.

The plaque of recognition was signed by Dr. Maritess Teresita M. Torio, Chair of the PRAISE Committee, and Dr. Ramoncito C. Magnaye, Medical Center Chief II, signifying the institution’s appreciation for the Committee’s outstanding service and meaningful contribution to the advancement of ethical research.

Receiving this award serves as a testament to the continued dedication of the Research Ethics Review Committee to uphold ethical standards, support quality research, and contribute to the improvement of healthcare services and community welfare.