In accordance with Republic Act (RA) No. 11215, which is also known as the “National Integrated Cancer Control Act”, the Philippine Cancer Center (PCC) is mandated to (1) lead, promote, encourage, and engage in ethical scientific research; (2) assist and train universities, hospitals, and research institutions in conduct of research, and (3) undertake training on cancer health care services and other related activities. As such, funds were sub-allotted and transferred by the PCC to select DOH Cancer Centers to aid in the operations of each respective recipient facility, and to aid in the conduct of research and participation in capacity development activities related to cancer (DOH Department Order Nos. 2022-0146 and 2023-0210).
Aligned with the above, the Philippine Cancer Center (PCC), in coordination with DOH Central Office Bureaus and Services, National Institutes of Health, Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, Philippine General Hospital, The Medical City, and World Health Organization Philippines, Epimetrics, Inc., organized the activity entitled “PCC Performance and Budget Utilization Review with Selected Specialty Centers, and Updates on Development and Opportunities in Cancer Research” last November 20-24, 2023 in Cavite.
The general objective of the activity was to tackle performance and budget utilization of all cancer centers. Its aim was to identify and overcome bottlenecks while improving budget utilization through the exploration of funding plans. Additionally, the cancer centers were encouraged to showcase exemplary practices in cancer care and research, potentially inspiring other centers in the process.
The activity also includes lectures on basic cancer research, and talks on trends on cancer research and innovations and opportunities. Moreover, the initiative facilitates the introduction of research agenda setting within DOH Cancer Centers, which can serve as a benchmark for the development of the PCC Research Agenda. The goal is to create an environment of continuous learning and innovation, ensuring that professionals in the cancer care community are well-prepared to navigate the evolving challenges and opportunities in cancer research. This holistic approach aims to provide cancer centers with intellectual and operational empowerment, thereby cultivating a community committed to advancing the fight against cancer with both intellectual and practical vigor.
Author: Rem Bernard R. Valentin, MPA
Health Program Officer I | Cancer Control Research Division (CCRD)
Published: October 08, 2024
Event Date: November 20-24, 2023