The primary function of RITM has been two-fold: to undertake research in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of tropical diseases of public health importance and to produce vaccines for the control of vaccine-preventable diseases. To be relevant to the national health policy and strategy, the research efforts have been directed towards the development of new diagnostic techniques as well as effective and efficient strategies for the control of infectious and/or tropical diseases. Its research efforts are being disseminated through local and international publications, presented in various scientific meetings and submitted to the health policy-making bodies.

General functions are to:

• Provide high quality tertiary care to both in-patients and out-patients suffering from tropical diseases included within the scope of the Institute’s research activities.
• Undertake research activities in the diagnosis, control and prevention of tropical diseases that are major causes of mortality and morbidity in the Philippines.
• Develop cost effective strategies for the control of infectious/tropical diseases.
• Conduct clinical trials according to accepted Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, aimed at better understanding and control of tropical diseases.
• Conduct regular training courses for medical and paramedical personnel in the control of common tropical diseases in the country.
• Participate in the technical cooperation programs with foreign government in research activities in the diagnosis, control and prevention of tropical diseases.