The half-day Seminar of the Regional Health Research and Development Consortium XI-Ethics and Review Committee (RHRDC XI-ERC) on Research Involving Endangered Plants and Accreditation of Animal Houses held at Granada Hall, Grand Men Seng Hotel last November 25, 2015 was indeed a success. The activity was participated by the faculties, researchers and students from the consortium’s member-institutions. The primary purpose of this activity is to update the participants on the ethical considerations and laboratory/research practices when conducting studies that involve plants and animals.

The seminar was formally opened by Dr. Gilbert B. Arendain, RHRDC XI Ethics and Review Committee Chairperson. He pointed out the importance of knowing the legal considerations and practices that researchers must be aware of and possess. Two distinguished speakers were invited to share their experiences and expertise.

Dr. Victor Amoroso, the Director of the Center for Biodiversity Research and Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM) and University Professor from Central Mindanao University (CMU) shared his researches specifically involving the Philippine Flora and their uses to improving human health. He as well shared examples of species that are classified as threatened plants. He stressed out that the current situation of these species is brought by the environmentally destructive human interventions. He further discussed laws set by the government in order to protect the endangered plants.

Thereafter, Dr. Bayani Vandenbroeck, a veterinarian and proprietor of Doc Bayani’s Animal Wellness Clinic focused his discussion on the use of laboratory animals for research and on the accreditation process for institutions doing animal research and having animal houses. He elaborated that certain protocols are necessary when involving animals in research not just to get reliable data but also for the welfare of the animals in general. He also said that it is important to get the animals from an accredited animal house as these animals are being bred for research and are used to being handled by human.

Dr. Warlito Vicente, Chairperson of RHRDC XI gave the closing remarks where he expressed his delight with regards to the interest he saw to the participants. He hoped that the concluded activity will better equip the participants in conducting their respective researches.

Powerpoint Presentations of the guest speakers as well as electronic copy of the guidelines for Animal House Accreditation can be downloaded at http://region11.healthresearch.ph/ Downloads Section.