[𝐌𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃] USeP strengthens operationalization of USePCRE through Basic Research Ethics Training

Following the formal approval of the University of Southeastern Philippines Committee on Research Ethics (USePCRE) through Board Resolutions Nos. 170A–170F, S. 2025, the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), through the Research and Development Division (R&DD), conducted another run of the Basic Research Ethics Training (BRET) on February 23–24, 2026 at the University Training Hall, USeP Obrero Campus, Davao City.

With the Board of Regents approving the establishment of USePCRE, the adoption of its Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Manual, authorization to operationalize its review processes, approval of review fees and honorarium schemes, and endorsement for Philippine Health Research Ethics Board (PHREB) accreditation, the University now moves from institutional preparation to full implementation of its research ethics governance framework.

The BRET reinforces the competencies of committee members, researchers, and institutional stakeholders in carrying out ethical review and oversight responsibilities under the officially sanctioned structure. Anchored on the principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and respect for persons, the training translated these foundations into operational mechanisms such as review pathways, risk assessment procedures, SOP compliance, and documentation standards.

Maintaining the same structured flow and core topics as previous sessions, this year’s BRET was facilitated by Dr. Renan P. Limjuco and Mr. Rodel C. Roño, who provided updated regulatory perspectives, contextualized case analyses, and practical guidance aligned with national oversight standards.

The conduct of this training underscores that Board approval marks not the end of a process, but the beginning of strengthened institutional accountability. As USeP advances toward PHREB accreditation and activates its research ethics review functions, continued capability-building remains central to ensuring consistency, integrity, and participant protection across its research ecosystem.

The R&DD is set to conduct additional batches of BRET and related training activities in the coming months to sustain operational readiness and system strengthening.

With USePCRE now established, USeP institutionalizes ethical oversight at the core of its research enterprise.

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