By Dr. Michael T. Sebullen
In a groundbreaking move for higher education in the Cordillera region, Baguio Central University (BCU) has successfully conducted its first in-house Basic Research Ethics Training (BRET) on July 29–30, 2025, becoming the first academic institution in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) to independently organize and host such training on campus. Spearheaded by the Research and Development Center (RDC) and officially recognized by the Cordillera Regional Health Research and Development Consortium (CRHRDC), this two-day initiative marked a historic step in elevating institutional research ethics.
The training brought together 30 participants composed of faculty members, deans, office heads, and directors, all of whom committed to deepening their understanding of ethical standards in research. The program began with a warm welcome message from Dr. Elma D. Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who emphasized on behalf of University President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera that:
“This is not just a compliance requirement. This is a declaration of our commitment to raise the ethical standards of research in the University, and to ensure that our academic output is guided by values of integrity, equity, and relevance.”
Day 1 featured expert lectures, interactive case discussions, and small group workshops led by CRHRDC’s team of facilitators. Topics covered included foundational ethical principles in research, informed consent, and the importance of assent forms—especially in studies involving vulnerable populations. These were discussed by Ms. Jannette D. Awisan. The training also highlighted the alignment of BCU’s initiative with CHED directives and PACUCOA recommendations aimed at enhancing the quality and ethical soundness of academic research.
Day 2 opened with a recap and group presentations facilitated by Ms. Elizabeth Porsha L. Kulallad, Training Coordinator and it was assisted Ms. Femarie B. Changli, Training Support Staff of CRHRDC.
It was followed by a series of impactful sessions: Dr. Eleanor DR Cuarte discussed protecting vulnerable populations in research; Ms. Lilia Rose A. Say-awen addressed ethical research conduct during public health emergencies; and Dr. Robert E. Tolentino explored qualifications of researchers and the ethical implications of using Artificial Intelligence in research.
Dr. Marina I. Sagandoy led a workshop on the structure and responsibilities of a Research Ethics Committee (REC), followed by a collaborative “Ways Forward” activity where participants proposed practical steps to institutionalize ethical research across BCU. Notably, discussions on AI ethics—based on the latest PHREB module—provoked deep reflections on the evolving landscape of research integrity.
The training concluded with a closing ceremony where participants were awarded certificates and recognized for their exemplary performance. Group 1—composed of Dr. Gina L. Casi, Mr. Angelo A. Bayacsan, Dr. Alen L. Rafael, Dr. M. Lopez, Ms. Hazel A. Castillo, Ms. Remma D. Celestino, and Mr. Ramirez P. Emingan—was recognized as the Most Active Team. Meanwhile, top scorers in the pre- and post-tests included Ms. Marga L. Taganas of the College of Business Administration (Top 1), Ms. Beca May Palitayan of the College of Criminal Justice Education, Ms. Aiza Bheal Kitani of the College of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts, and Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang from the Graduate School (Top 2), and Mr. Angelo A. Bayacsan from the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (Top 3).
Ms. Kulallad lauded BCU’s initiative, stating:
“BCU is setting the tone for other academic institutions in the region.”
As BCU commemorates its 80th Founding Anniversary, this landmark training underscores the university’s enduring commitment to ethical and socially responsible scholarship. With a strengthened foundation in research ethics, BCU continues to blaze the trail for institutional capacity-building and innovation in higher education across the region.
