The 7th Regional Health Research Conference, organized by the Northern Mindanao Consortium for Health Research and Development (NorMinCoHRD) in collaboration with Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan through the Kinaadman University Research Office (KURO) and the University Research Council (URC) aimed to provide a venue for health researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders across Northern Mindanao to showcase the latest health research findings, foster collaboration, and promote the application of research in health policies and programs. This year’s theme, "Sustainable Health Solutions for a Greener Future: Bridging Health and Environmental Well-Being," highlights innovative and sustainable approaches to health that address the intersection of health and environmental issues.
The conference was held on 22 to 24 October 2024, boasting a smorgasbord of activities that included: 1) plenary sessions featuring expert speakers in the field of health, environment, policy, and innovative research; and 2) competitions in the Oral Research Paper Presentation, Research Poster Competition for both Student and Professional Categories, 3-Minute Pitch to Policymakers Competition for Professionals and Science Communication through Infomercial Competition for Students.
Participants ranged from health researchers, policymakers involved in public health and environmental policy development, healthcare professionals, environmental experts on sustainable practices and ecological well-being, academicians and students majoring in health and environmental studies, Local Government Units (LGUs) and other stakeholders in public health programs and the Philippine Information Agency-10 (PIA) as a key partner in public health communication and awareness.
The event commenced with a ceremonial ribbon cutting at Peace Park, followed by the official opening ceremonies at the XU Little Theater. An atmosphere of enthusiasm and celebration characterized the three-day conference, during which researchers presented their studies to a distinguished panel of judges. These presentations featured insightful findings. Certain research topics garnered particular attention and were honored during the closing ceremony on the final day. Xavier University also secured winning spots. Allianah Ocena, Jonquil Bao, and Kim Dael won second place in the Infomercial Competition. Meanwhile, Jon Rey M Valmores also bagged second in the Oral Research Paper Competition category. The event concluded with the symbolic turnover of the flag to Misamis University of Ozamiz City, the next host institution.