By Frances Batara, StratCom Correspondent

Dr. Cheryll Didi Nellie Obra, acting dean of the MMSU College of Health Sciences (CHS) and a faculty member of the physical therapy department, secured 2nd place in the Oral Research Paper Presentation (Professional Category) at the 17th Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) conference held at Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City, from August 13-16. 

Her research on "Prevalence and Influencing Risk Factors of Health Conditions among Tobacco Farmers in Ilocos Norte" was one of six papers selected from 34 entries nationwide to compete in the PNHRS.

In the student category, recent BS Pharmacy graduate Ms. Eirenne Jem Soriano also achieved 2nd place with her presentation on “In vitro and in vivo blood glucose lowering activity and acute oral toxicity of Neonauclea bartlingii var. cumingiana leaf extract.” 

The PNHRS conference, themed "Leveraging Global Networks in Advancing the National Health Research System," focused on enhancing national health research through global collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders.

Earlier this year, on June 21, Soriano, as principal investigator, led her team to 1st place in the Student Category at the 2024 Region 1 Health Research and Development Conference (R1HRDC) held at Event Center, Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation Inc. Her team, including Shiloh Veil Aguillon, Riza Rogel, and Gabriel Silva, qualified for the PNHRS. Prof. Anabelle Alejo and Prof. Franklin Ibana served as their advisers.

The MMSU CHS continues to be a leading institution in health research and addressing the community's critical health needs.