Recognizing diversity as a strength in advancing science and technology, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. called for greater convergence among researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, academic institutions, and stakeholders to build a health research system that is stronger and more responsive to the needs of Filipinos in his keynote speech during the 19th Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week Celebration in Koronadal City, South Cotabato on 11 August 2026. 

Anchored on the theme of “HEALTHCONVERGE: Transforming Health Research, Connecting Cultures,” Secretary Solidum emphasized the value of convergence in bringing diverse perspectives together. “It is through this convergence that we transform diversity into discovery and ideas into breakthroughs. I firmly believe that meaningful innovations emerge when people from different disciplines, institutions, cultures, and communities work toward a shared purpose,” he said.

As part of the PNHRS’ initiatives to build a stronger health research system, Secretary Solidum highlighted how the National Unified Health Research Agenda (NUHRA) provides direction to health R&D by aligning research priorities with the country’s health needs. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board (PHREB) for advancing ethical standards in health research involving human participants, and the Regional Health Research and Development Consortia (RHRDC) for strengthening regional and institutional capacity-building activities nationwide. 

In support of a more responsive health research system, Secretary Solidum highlighted how the PNHRS implementing agencies bring together their respective mandates, expertise, and resources to align research with the needs of Filipinos. By leveraging their complementary expertise and mandates, the DOST, through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), together with the Department of Health (DOH), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and University of the Philippines Manila – National Institutes of Health’s (UP-NIH), helps align research priorities with health needs, strengthen research capacity across institutions, and connect scientific evidence with policies and actions. 

“Let us make HEALTHCONVERGE more than just a theme. Let it guide the way we work across disciplines, sectors, and cultures. Let us remain committed to advancing a health research system that is inclusive, collaborative, and responsive to the needs of the Filipino people,” Secretary Solidum said, urging all participants to carry the spirit of convergence beyond the celebration and into their continuing work in health R&D.

Embodying DOST’s mantra of #OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All, Secretary Solidum underscored that bringing together diverse perspectives, expertise, and knowledge can open new frontiers in Philippine health research. Through a shared vision and collective action, science can drive meaningful solutions, advance better health outcomes, and foster greater hope for every Filipino.

Celebrated every second week of August, the 19th PNHRS Week celebration is held on August 11 to 13, 2026, at The Farm in Carpenter Hill, South Cotabato.