Three RITM scientists shared their newest research findings at the Anniversary Research Forum last April 24, 2018 at the Training Center Auditorium in line with the theme, “RITM@37: Breaking new grounds for public health”.

Alison Paolo Bareng of the Department of Parasitology presented his study on the molecular monitoring of dihydrofolatereductase (dhfr) and dihydropteroatesynthetase (dhps) associated with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance in Plasmodium vivax isolates. Dr. Marianette Inobaya of the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics (DEBS) discussed her investigation on the role of community health workers in global elimination efforts, specifically in schistosomiasis. Lastly, Dr. Ma. Teresita Gabriel of the Department of Dermatology elucidated the results of a global research collaboration on second-generation antihistamines for allergic rhinitis and urticaria.

Dr. Maria Rosario Capeding of the Department of Microbiology recalled her personal experience and struggles during the Dengvaxia fiasco in her talk, “The Dengvaxia Journey through the Eyes of the Scientist”.

Delivering a message from the Department of Health (DOH), Usec. Mario Villaverde stressed the challenge of communicating health research that can be easily understood by decision- and policymakers.

Towards the end of the program, RIO head Dr. Mario Antonio Jiz II awarded Small Research Grants to five budding RITM scientists, namely: Leonibel Reyes (Virology), Marianette Inobaya (DEBS), Charmaine Joy Berte (Parasitology), Dr. Catalino Demetria, Jr. (VRD-SPL), and Dr. Katherine Cosca (Medical).

by Jahannah M. Calpito, Research and Innovation Office [RITM Web Team]