The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), through the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training (OVPRET), is conducting a two-day training-workshop titled Foundations and Practice of Ethical Review of Research: Strengthening Ethical Competence, Consistency, and Quality in Research Ethics Review on October 22–23, 2026, at Rico Fajardo Hall, NEUST Sumacab Campus.

The workshop aims to strengthen the ethical competence of NEUST research ethics committee chairs in evaluating research protocols, assessing informed consent, identifying ethical concerns, and ensuring that research activities uphold the rights, dignity, and welfare of participants.

In a message delivered through an audio-visual presentation, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of ethical research, noting that ethical review must go beyond compliance and ensure the protection of people who place their trust in researchers. 

Meanwhile, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training Dr. Jean Guillasper highlighted the importance of giving back to the university and the community through responsible research. She emphasized that research should focus not only on its outputs but also on protecting the welfare of respondents and participants.

“Masarap makita na hindi lang yung output ang tinitingnan natin, but also yung welfare ng ating respondents and participants,” Dr. Guiilasper shared.

Institutional Ethics Review Committee (IERC) Chairperson Dr. Girlie Tayao also discussed the purpose of the training-workshop, underscoring the role of ethics review in promoting responsible and accountable research practices.

The training is being led by keynote speaker Dr. Noriel Calaguas, Chairperson of the Institutional Review Board of Holy Angel University.

The sessions cover the foundations of research ethics, regulatory frameworks, ethics committee responsibilities, protocol evaluation, informed consent assessment, and ethical issues in contemporary research. These are complemented by practical exercises and mock ethics committee deliberations. 

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