As one chapter closes, another begins; for the Metro Manila Health Research and Development Consortium’s Batch 2 interns, their journey officially commenced with an orientation grounded in reflection, shared experiences, and renewed purpose. The meeting served as both a meaningful transition from the previous batch and a renewed introduction to the consortium’s mission, purpose, and expectations for its incoming interns.

Building on the transition between batches, the consortium conducted the orientation online via Zoom on February 16, 2026. The orientation was attended by the following De La Salle University Batch 2 interns: Bea Nicole Gacayan, Kenn Gaveril Gamboa, Cy Ysabela Kuan, Jilian Casandra Lamberto, Lance Elizabeth Magat, Rianna Alexandra Magpantay, Iza
Clare Mira, Francis Paul Nicdao, and Reine Karla Petrola. The session was facilitated by Mr. Mark De Leon, alongside Ms. Camille, Sir Oliver of the MMHRDC secretariat team.

A meaningful highlight of the orientation and accomplishment report meeting was the sharing session led by Francine Labrica and Brian Martin from the Communications and Coordination Team; Tanya Louise Alvio and Phoebe Miles Bajenting from the Production and Publication Team; Beatriz Aguiluz and Aljon Gonzales from the Public Affairs and Social Media Team; Roy Belarmino and Bianca Callanta from the Tech and Administrative Team. The outgoing batch revisited their journey, reflecting on the committees they joined, the responsibility entrusted to them, and the projects they helped bring to life during their term. Each intern shared a brief overview of their responsibilities, key accomplishments, and the skills they developed throughout their experience.

Among the initiatives highlighted was the Information Circle, developed by the Communications and Coordination Team. This platform served as an official channel for sharing updates, opportunities, and key initiatives from MMHRDC and DOST-PCHRD. Disseminated via email, the Information Circle was designed to strengthen communication within the consortium by keeping stakeholders informed and connected. It also provided a space for sharing member announcements while fostering stronger ties with both current and potential members of the network.

The Technical and Administrative Team also contributed significantly through the preparation of the 2026 MMHRDC Narrative Accomplishment Report. The initiative for the report was started by Batch 1, with the intention that its development will be continued by the succeeding batches throughout the year. This approach allows the report to be compiled progressively rather than being completed within a short span of time. The report gathers narrative summaries from pertinent committees, along with tabulated descriptions of posts and events conducted throughout the year, providing a comprehensive and continuously updated overview of the consortium’s activities and milestones.

Another notable project was the MMHRDC-L.E.G.A.C.Y. Campaign, proposed by the Public Affairs and Social Media Team of Batch 1. Through a series of informative and visually engaging posts, the campaign translated complex health research into accessible and engaging content for the public.

Meanwhile, the Creatives Team focused on the expansion and refinement of the  MMHRDC Branding Policy and Creative Publication Formats. This initiative aimed to standardize the visual identity of MMHRDC materials by enhancing branding guidelines and improving publication templates. With these efforts, the team ensured consistency and professionalism across various communication and promotional outputs of the consortium.

Beyond tasks and accomplishments, Batch 1 also shared their “gems,” the most meaningful lessons from their experience. While they gained technical skills and professional insights, what resonated most was the feeling of being part of a safe and supportive workplace. More than the advice shared by mentors, it was a sense of belonging that defined their experience. 

As Batch 2 begins their journey, they step into a community shaped not only by research and collaboration but by genuine mentorship and shared purpose, ready to create their own set of gems in the months ahead. Through this shared commitment to growth and service, MMHRDC continues to leave a lasting impact by shaping future health research leaders whose work reaches hospitals, institutions, and communities, strengthening public health and making a meaningful difference in the lives they touch.