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Welcome to the
San Juan de Dios Institutional Review Board (SJDIRB)

At the heart of ethical research lies a commitment to integrity, compassion, and excellence. The San Juan de Dios Institutional Review Board (SJDIRB) upholds these values, serving as a steadfast guardian in the pursuit of knowledge and healthcare improvement.

As part of the Philippines' oldest private hospital and a distinguished educational institution, San Juan de Dios Educational Foundation, Inc. (SJDEFI) carries a rich legacy of unwavering dedication to medical service and education. Established in 2010, the SJDIRB embodies this legacy, evolving through accreditations and significantly contributing to ethical education and research oversight.

The SJDIRB provides ethical oversight across a broad spectrum of research domains, including student, clinical, and medical research. Our institutional jurisdiction extends to the academe, hospital, and non-affiliated institutions, reflecting our commitment to ensuring the highest ethical standards in every research setting.

We are dedicated to providing clear guidance and support to researchers, ensuring that all studies are conducted with the utmost respect for participants and adherence to ethical principles. Our processes are designed to navigate the complexities of research, addressing milestones, challenges, and evolving global landscapes, including the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

Through collaborative efforts, strategic improvements, and digital transformations, the SJDIRB remains adaptable and steadfast in its mission. We invite you to explore our resources and learn more about our commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards in research. Whether you are a researcher, reviewer, or stakeholder, we are here to support you in advancing ethical practices in the pursuit of knowledge and healthcare improvement.

SAN JUAN DE DIOS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION, INC. INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD (SJDIRB)

Established in 2010, the San Juan de Dios Institutional Review Board (SJDIRB) was born from a vision to consolidate various ethics committees within the San Juan de Dios Hospital Community. Under the leadership of Dr. Camilo Roa, SJDIRB was granted a certificate of registration by the Philippine Health Ethics Board (PHREB), solidifying its role as an independent body dedicated to safeguarding ethical research practices.

A New Era of Independence
In 2015, a pivotal shift occurred as SJDIRB gained independence, transitioning from the Vice President for Health Service Office to the Office of the President. Chaired by Dr. Roger Arcangel, the board achieved significant milestones, including its first Joint PHREB accreditation and FERCAP Recognition.

Continued Growth and Recognition
2017: SJDIRB maintained its Level III Health Research Institution accreditation from PHREB and welcomed new board members. 2019: The board renewed its recognition by SIDCER-FERCAP, reaffirming its international standing.

Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, including the loss of SJDIRB Chair, Dr Rose Pulido. Despite these adversities, interim chairs Dr. Camilo Roa and Dr. Alice Sun-Cua guided SJDIRB through a period of adaptation and strategic recalibration.

A New Chapter of Innovation and Collaboration
Under the leadership of Mr. Julian Corpus III, SJDIRB embarked on a transformative journey. Key initiatives included:

  1. Digital Transformation: Embracing digital tools to streamline review processes.
  2. Accelerated Review: Implementing a 10-day turnaround for COVID-19 protocols, aligned with FDA and PHREB guidelines. Now the basis for the Policy on Review in Public Health Emergencies
  3. Expanded Collaboration: Joining the Single Joint Research Ethics Board (SJREB) to streamline multi-site reviews.
  4. Educational Initiatives: Launching the PRC-CPD accredited online Good Clinical Practice (GCP) program and VinSearch DigiCon, VINcentian ReSEARCH Involving Human Participants. This groundbreaking digital conference brought together researchers committed to integrating Catholic-Vincentian values into ethical, rigorous, and socially impactful human research
  5. Institutional Partnerships:: Forging collaborations with Higher Educational Institutions and Training Hospitals.

A Future of Ethical Excellence
As SJDIRB looks to the future, it remains committed to its core mission of safeguarding ethical research practices. This commitment aligns with the fundamental principles of ICH E6(R3), which emphasizes the protection of trial participants, the reliability of trial results, and the importance of quality in clinical trials. Key priorities include:

  • Re-Accreditation - Preparing for re-accreditation by PHREB ensuring adherence to the highest international and local ethical standards.
  • Focus on Trial Quality - Implementing a Quality by Design approach to proactively identify factors critical to trial quality and manage risks that could impact participant safety and the reliability of results.
  • Emphasis on Data Quality and Integrity - Ensuring that systems and processes for data capture, management, and analysis are fit for purpose, and that data integrity is maintained throughout the data life cycle. This includes implementing appropriate measures for data handling, access, and security.
  • Risk-Based Approach - Implementing clinical trial processes, measures, and approaches in a way that is proportionate to the risks to participants and the importance of the data collected, while avoiding unnecessary burden on participants and investigators.
  • Technology Considerations - Strategically incorporating innovative technologies to improve trial conduct, while ensuring that their use is adapted to participant characteristics and trial design.
  • Transparency - Promoting transparency in clinical trials through timely registration on publicly accessible databases and consideration of communicating trial results to participants in an objective and non-promotional manner.

By embracing these initiatives and fostering strong collaborations, SJDIRB is poised to remain a beacon of ethical excellence in the field of health research, upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and compassionate care. This commitment ensures the rights, safety, and well-being of research participants, and the reliability and integrity of research outcomes, in accordance with the principles of ICH E6(R3).

INSTITUTIONAL ORGANOGRAM

In SJDEFI, the guiding tenets of Catholic-Vincentian charism serve as the cornerstone for a synergistic integration of the Hospital and the College. This collaborative enterprise is expertly steered by the President, who plays a central role in overseeing key offices integral to the institution's overarching mission and values.

Organizational Relationships
The President oversees critical offices, including the Vice President for Health Services (VPHS), Vice President for Education (VPE) and SJDIRB

Ethical Oversight and Research Integration
The VPE and VPHS collaborate with the SJDIRB to ensure ethical considerations are integrated into academic and healthcare research.

The College, under the VPE's guidance, contributes to ethical oversight by recommending members to the Collegiate Panel.

The Hospital, led by the VPHS, recommends staff members to the SJDIRB. The Medical Service Division recommends medical experts to the Healthcare Panel.

SJDIRB Functional Organogram
The SJDIRB is structured to ensure ethical and compliant research oversight. This collaborative framework enables the SJDIRB to adapt to the dynamic research landscape while prioritizing ethical oversight and efficient operations.

SJDIRB Mandate and Scope of Authority

Guided by Catholic-Vincentian tradition, the San Juan de Dios Educational Foundation Inc. - Institutional Review Board (SJDIRB) safeguards the rights, well-being, and dignity of all human participants in research conducted within or associated with San Juan de Dios Educational Foundation Inc. (SJDEFI). The SJDIRB reviews, approves, and monitors research to ensure adherence to the highest ethical principles and values.

Structure and Authority

  • Appointing Authority: The SJDEFI President.
  • Recommending Authority: The SJDIRB Chair.
  • Implementing Authority: The SJDIRB.
  • Dissolution Authority: Only the SJDEFI President has the authority to dissolve the SJDIRB.
  • Independence: The SJDIRB operates independently in its decision-making processes, free from undue influence or interference.

SJDIRB Officers and Members 2025

Healthcare Panel Members

#NameInstitutional AffiliationDesignationExpertise
1Bro. Marlon T. Camino, OFSInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalNon-Medical/ Non-Scientific MemberPastoral
Community Engagement
Banking & Finance
2Maria Carla Dumaual, MMCNon-InstitutionalNon-Medical/ Non-Scientific MemberCampus Ministry
Community Engagement
3Agripino P. Licauco, JrNon-InstitutionalNon-Medical/ Non-Scientific MemberResearch & Information Technology
4Erika Trisha S. Fernando, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical MemberSurgical Oncology
5Elizabeth E. Espino-Strebel, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical MemberGynecologic Oncology
6Anne Kristine H. Quero-Taggaoa, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical MemberAdult Hematology Internal Medicine
7Carmina V. Ponce, RN, MSNInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalParamedical/ Scientific MemberAdvanced clinical training Leadership and Management skills
8Maria Rowena F. Montealegre, RSW, MSWInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific MemberSocial Science Leadership and Management skills
9Julian V. Corpus III, PTRP, MSPT, MHAInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalParamedical/ Scientific Member ChairPhysical Rehabilitation Science Hospital Management Organizational Development
10Susan H. Diaz, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Member Vice ChairPediatrics
11Christopher Allan F. Reballos, PhD (c)Institutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific Members Board SecretaryNatural Science, Research and Statistics

Collegiate Panel Members

#NameInstitutional AffiliationDesignationExpertise
1Maria Rowena F. Montealegre, RSW, MSWInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific MemberSocial Science Leadership and Management skills
2Juli-Ann A. Balmonte, RN, MAP, MANInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific MemberNurse Faculty
3Lorena E. Abiera, RN, MANInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific MemberNurse Faculty
4Duane S. Reyes, RMT, MPHInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific MemberMedical Technology Faculty
5Kathlyne Jane F. Graycochea, PTRPInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific MemberPhysical Therapy Faculty
6Marlyn J. Mabalot, LPT, EdDInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeScientific MemberSocial Science, Education
7Jesus Trix V. Ponsaran, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-CollegeMedical MemberGeneral Surgery, Faculty

Alternate Members

#NameInstitutional AffiliationDesignationExpertise
1Alice Sun-Cua, MD Institutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Alternate MemberObstetrics & Gynecology
2Roger A. Arcangel, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Alternate MemberGeneral Surgery
3Joanne Carmela Sandejas, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Alternate MemberAdult Infectious Disease Internal Medicine
4Melissa M. Montoya, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Alternate MemberPediatric Hematology
5Paulene Kristine L. Gonzaga, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Alternate MemberAdult Cardiology
6Fr. Dennis M. Abuel, CMNon-InstitutionalParamedical Alternate MemberNursing Care Pastoral Care Bioethics
7Antonio C. Cortez, MD, MMHAInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Alternate MemberObstetrics & Gynecology; Obstetric Ultrasonology; Hospital Management
8Ma. Cristina S. ColaycoNon-InstitutionalNon-Medical/ Non-Scientific MemberCampus Ministry Community Engagement

SAE Committee

#NameProfessionDesignation
1Alice Sun-Cua, MD Obstetrician-GynecologistHead of SAE Committee
2Christopher Allan F. Reballos, PhD (c)BiostatisticianMember
3Jessica L. Diongco, RPhPharmacistMember

Independent Consultants

#NameInstitutional AffiliationDesignationExpertise
1Cecilia A. Jimeo, MD Institutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent Consultant Endocrinology Internal Medicine
2Jade V. Villaluz, MD Institutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent Consultant Endocrinology Internal Medicine
3Ricardo N. Lopez, MD Institutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent Consultant Anesthesia
4Gerardo H. Cornelio, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent Consultant Oncology Internal Medicine
5Katherine Rose Santos-Tiangco, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent ConsultantRadiology
6Myrna E. Borromeo, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent Consultant Radiology
7Ma. Cecilia S. Montalban, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent Consultant Otorhinolaryngology
8Ma. Teresita G. Gabriel, MDInstitutional SJDEFI-HospitalMedical Independent Consultant Dermatology

GENERAL POLICY
The San Juan de Dios Institutional Review Board (SJDIRB) oversees all research conducted within SJDEFI-College and SJDEFI-Hospital, including studies by:

  1. Faculty, students, and staff of SJDEFI-College
  2. Clinical faculty, residents, and fellows of SJDEFI-Hospital
  3. External researchers or institutions without an established ethics review board

All research protocols require ethical review as outlined in this document.

Ethical Principles & Scope
The SJDIRB adheres to ethical guidelines, including the Belmont Report, the Declaration of Helsinki, and other relevant standards. The SJDIRB's jurisdiction extends to all human subject research conducted within or affiliated with SJDEFI, regardless of funding source or external affiliations. This includes biomedical, social, behavioral, and educational research, ensuring respect for human dignity, promoting fairness and equity, and prioritizing the needs of vulnerable populations.

In alignment with ICH E6(R3), the SJDIRB emphasizes the following ethical principles:

  1. Protection of Participants Ensuring the rights, safety, and well-being of research participants are the most important considerations and should prevail over interests of science and society.
  2. Informed Consent Guaranteeing that participants provide voluntary informed consent prior to trial participation. Clinical trial participation should be voluntary and based on a consent process that ensures participants (or their legally acceptable representatives, where applicable) are well-informed.
  3. Risk-Benefit Assessment Evaluating the foreseeable risks and inconveniences against the anticipated benefits for participants and society.
  4. Scientific Quality Promoting scientifically sound research methodologies to ensure reliable trial results. Clinical trials should be scientifically sound for their intended purpose and based on adequate and current scientific knowledge and approaches.

Transparency, Accountability, and Monitoring of Performance
The SJDIRB is committed to transparency and accountability. To achieve this, the SJDIRB will:

  1. Ensure timely reviews of research proposals through clear and transparent procedures.
  2. Provide constructive feedback to researchers to improve the quality of research proposals and conduct.
  3. Protect the confidentiality of research participants and study information, in accordance with applicable privacy and data protection requirements.
  4. Maintain accurate records of review meetings and decisions.
  5. Provide training and education to researchers and SJDIRB members on ethical research principles and GCP.
  6. Collaborate with other IRBs and regulatory bodies.

Collaboration and Partnership
For collaborative research, the SJDIRB may establish agreements with external entities to ensure ethical review and oversight, as outlined in SOP 22: Reliance and Collaborative Research Policy. This may include reliance agreements or other collaborative arrangements to streamline the review process while maintaining ethical standards and GCP compliance.

(The SJDIRB's mandate and scope of authority are detailed in Institutional Policy Memorandum No. 01, Series of 2023-24)

TECHNICAL REVIEW
All research protocols must undergo technical review before ethical review by the SJDIRB.

  1. Responsibility: The endorsing clinical department, college, or unit is responsible for assessing the scientific merit and relevance of the research.
  2. Endorsement: Protocols require endorsement from the relevant department/college before submission to the SJDIRB.
  3. Evidence: Principal Investigators (PIs) must submit evidence of technical review.
  4. SJDIRB Authority: The SJDIRB may request additional technical review from an independent expert.

ETHICS REVIEW

  1. Mandatory: All research proposals require ethics review.
  2. Ethical Considerations: Protocols must include a section addressing ethical issues and mitigation measures for risks to participants, animals, and the environment, with particular attention to the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice, as emphasized in ICH E6 (R3)
  3. Informed Consent: Informed consent must be obtained and documented for all participants, in accordance with ICH E6 (R3) guidelines.

COMPULSORY REGISTRATION
All research involving human participants must be registered in a publicly accessible database before enrolling the first participant.

  1. Clinical Trials: https://registry.healthresearch.ph/index.php/about-the-registry
  2. Student/Postgraduate/Resident Research: https://www.herdin.ph/index.php
  3. Registration ensures:
    1. Institutional oversight: Regulation of the use of SJDEFI-Hospital facilities and name.
    2. Intellectual property protection.
    3. Compliance with SJDEFI-Hospital requirements: Failure to register may result in disciplinary action.
    4. Designated Registration Offices for Research Conducted at or Involving the San Juan de Dios Community:
      1. Medical/Clinical Research: Medical Service Division Office
      2. Nursing Research: NSD-Training Office
      3. Allied Health Research: Instituto De Marillac, Human Resource Division Office

SUBMISSION PROCEDURES & DOCUMENTATION

  1. Initial Review:
    1. Submit a completed application form (SJDIRB Form 3.1) and all required documents to the Hospital Research Committees.
    2. The Hospital Research Committees will issue a registration certification and endorse the protocol to the SJDIRB.
    3. Include proof of PI qualifications (CV, Research Ethics and GCP Training).
    4. The SJDIRB Secretariat will screen the protocol and may request additional documents.
    5. Researchers conducting research at sites without a local ethics review board must submit certification.
  2. Continuing Review:
    1. SJDIRB approval is required for any protocol amendments.
    2. Amendments should be submitted directly to the SJDIRB (no need for re-registration with Hospital Research Committees).
    3. Follow SJDIRB SOPs for revisions, amendments, and resubmissions.

Downloadable Forms:

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP):

  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) documentation is provided upon request.

Approved Protocols:

2025 References:

For any concerns regarding your research protocols, you may reach us through the following: Institutional Review Board Office

  • Tel: (02)8 551-4385 local 2312
  • Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Email: irboffice@sjdefi.edu.ph
  • For feedback and concerns, please click the Facebook Messenger icon at the bottom right of your screen.
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