The Health Research and Development Information Network (HERDIN) Research Camp took place on November 6, 2025, at the Annex Building of Hotel Alejandro in Tacloban City, Leyte. Representatives from Samar State University (SSU) and Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) gathered for a hands-on workshop designed to gain deeper familiarity with HERDIN in the region.

SSU has been connected to HERDIN since its online orientation in January 2021 and also participated in an online learning session in May 2023. BiPSU, a new partner of HERDIN, held its orientation in October 2024. With support from the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC), participants from both universities gained a deeper understanding of the HERDIN system through guided exercises and discussions. The session also enabled  them to meet one of their targets related to research information management. 

The camp featured short games and participant presentations that reinforce the lessons covered during the workshop. Participants confirmed their readiness to upload more research materials from SSU and BiPSU to the HERDIN database. EVHRDC expressed hope that more institutions in the region will eventually join HERDIN, as broader participation can help establish a clearer picture of the health R&D activities across Eastern Visayas and support discussions within local sectors. 

Dr. Sherrie Ann Cananua-Labid, Chair of the EVHRDC’s Research Utilization, noted the strong commitment of participants, emphasizing their dedication to strengthening research access through HERDIN. Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, expressed gratitude to HERDIN for providing resources and linkages. She highlighted that broader accessibility and visibility of research will contribute to the well-being of the community. “This effort benefits the people and the country, and the workshop is greatly appreciated,” she said.

“With the HERDIN Research Camp, and with SSU and BiPSU joining, our researchers in Eastern Visayas can now have better access to sharing studies that can improve our health programs and policies,” said DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Dr Jaime C. Montoya, commending the value of expanding HERDIN’s efforts in the regions.

About HERDIN:

HERDIN is the national health research repository, a health research information management system and collaboration platform for Higher Education and Research and Development Institutions to collect, organize, and disseminate research information It is currently managed by the DOST-PCHRD.