The final segment of the Human Well-being breakout session of the 8th National Research and Development Conference (NRDC) focused on building talent in health research and development. Three speakers shared their personal journeys, highlighting how global exposure, institutional support, and a deep sense of service contribute to shaping health science in the Philippines.

Ms. Joana A.  America, Chief of the Institution Development Division (IDD) of the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development’s (DOST-PCHRD), opened the segment with an overview of the Council’s support for Filipino researchers through scholarships, fellowships, and collaborative training programs. She noted that  nearly  95 scholars are currently enrolled in PCHRD- supported programs, many pursuing doctoral degrees.  Research partnerships such as the Philippine Liver Research Network (PLRN) and the ASEAN Liver Research Initiative – formed through collaborations with Fondazione Italiana Fegato in Italy –  offer platforms for advanced study on liver diseases. “We at the Council are always in support of training a pool of health researchers and scientists dedicated to solving current and future health challenges,” stated Ms. America.

Dr. Charlie A. Lavilla Jr.,  former DOST-Newton Agham scholar and currently a professor of chemistry at Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology, shared insights from his PhD research on metabolic diseases. His study explored how  skeletal muscle cells regulate glucose, and the role of  carnosine in  counteracting oxidative stress, a factor in diabetes. Dr. Lavilla credited international training for sharpening his research perspective and laboratory expertise. “The support for young researchers like I had is an investment in the kind of future that our people deserve,” he said. 

Building on this discussion, Dr. Michael C. Velarde of the University of the Philippines Diliman’s Institute of Biology recounted his return to the Philippines in 2015 under the Balik Scientist Program. After working abroad in the fields of molecular biology and reproductive endocrinology, Dr Velarde joined local research efforts in  breast cancer, precision medicine, and environmental exposure. His  work now informs studies on regional  risk factors and  health policy development. “The decision to return came from seeing the need,” he said. “And the decision to stay came from recognizing that more can still be done. Science at the highest level can be done here when people are given the space and support to do it.”

The session underscored the importance of creating pathways for Filipino researchers to gain international exposure while remaining grounded in national priorities. “From early-career scholars to returning scientists, each contribution strengthens the country’s health R&D ecosystem, one built on knowledge, purpose, and service to the Filipino people,” said session moderator  Dr. Noel Salvoza, PCHRD S&T Fellow for institutional development, as he concluded that as more researchers continue to grow through training overseas, bringing home their expertise, the country moves steadily toward a more capable and responsive health research system.