National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila (UP-NIH)

Vision To be the country's recognized authority in health research and development and the key source of critical health information for national development in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Mission To be a major resource center for health research and capacity-building using the framework "Partnership for Better Health". The Organization The National Institutes of Health was created on January 26, 1996 by the UP Board of Regents as an institutional home of a network of various research and extension units specializing in health and socio-biomedical concerns. This thrust is consistent with the country's vision of "Health for All". Established on February 13, 1998 through the Health Research and Development Act (RA 8503), the National Institutes of Health envisions itself to be the country's recognized authority on health research and development and be the key source of critical health information for national development in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. The mission to be a major resource center for health research and capacity building is pursued using the framework of "Partnership for Better Health" (cited from National Institutes of Health Brochure, 1999), and more specifically through the following: Influence policy makers in the enactment of health laws, policies and guidelines which improve delivery of quality health programs Provide health organizations relevant health research and development and improve their health service delivery Contribute to the enhancement of medical knowledge and improve the practices of health care professionals Develop the capabilities of health researchers and health research institutions Promote the health awareness and improve the health-seeking behaviour of the Filipino people Spearhead the research on essential national health issues and concerns Lead in the formulation of national health research agenda Become a recognized authority in health research and development The NIH, while considered a unit of the University of the Philippines Manila, has its own Board of Advisers that recommends the general direction, determines priorities and thrusts of the organization, and generates resources in support of the programs and component units. The Board of Advisers is composed of the Department of Health Secretary, Chancellor of UP Manila, Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), the Executive Director of NIH, and 2 other recognized scholars appointed by the UP Board of Regents. Currently, NIH has various research institutes and active study groups that continue to develop and produce outputs that serve as vital guideposts in shaping national programs and policies.