In celebration of the 2024 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with the University of Saint Louis (USL), through its University Research and Innovation Office (URIO), hosted a two-day training workshop on “Translating Health Research Into Policy” on September 25-26, 2024 at the N06 Hall.
On the first day, Dr. Jason S. Ligot, a renowned public health doctor and international health specialist, led an in-depth session covering key aspects of evidence-informed policymaking. His discussion focused on identifying policy issues, setting goals, and defining objectives. Later in the day, Dr. Ligot explored effective strategies for policy communication, discussing various frameworks and messaging techniques. The afternoon concluded with a comprehensive guide on crafting policy briefs, highlighting their purpose, structure, and real-world examples.
Day two kicked off with a panel discussion aimed at bridging the gap between health research and policymakers. Panelists included Mr. Ralph Emerson P. Degollacion, Managing Director of HealthJustice Philippines; Atty. Kymverlie P. Mallo, Local Government Operations Officer V and Section Chief of Local Research and Planning at DILG Region 2; and Dr. Darin Jan C. Tindowen, Senior Director of URIO. Dr. Ligot facilitated the panel, steering discussions on how to effectively communicate research to policymakers.
Following the panel, participants engaged in a hands-on workshop focused on developing policy pitches and outlining policy briefs.
The afternoon session featured presentations from participants, who later received feedback on their policy pitches. After the presentations, Mr. Ralph Emerson P. Degollacion delivered a talk on case studies in policy advocacy.
The training was attended by faculty from SHAS, CECA, and Basic Education. Half of the audience is composed of delegates from member institutions of Cagayan Valley Health Research and Development Consortium.
Throughout the two-day event, Dr. Ligot has served as the lead facilitator, ensuring that participants are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to translate health research into actionable policy.
This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, by fostering collaboration between health researchers and policymakers. Through this partnership, DOST and USL aim to bridge gaps in health research translation, ensuring evidence-based policies that enhance public health outcomes.
#URIO #SDG3 #ExperienceUSL #USLPhilippines
