Establishment of the National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- NIH is created and established at the University of the Philippines Manila.
- NIH coordinates and integrates various existing research institutes at UP Manila.
- Institutes under NIH include: Institute of Ophthalmology, Institute of Socio-Biomedical Research, Institute of Biotechnology and Molecular Biology for Health, Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, and future institutes.
Objectives of the NIH
- Promote science and technology research in health.
- Develop study groups and research programs.
- Disseminate and utilize research outputs.
- Support graduate programs and faculty research at UP Manila.
- Ensure health research results improve public health.
Powers and Functions of the NIH
- Coordinate and integrate institutes' operations and research programs.
- Organize research teams for innovations in health technologies, medicines, vaccines, and other products.
- Establish programs on health promotion, disease prevention, and control.
- Conduct research on aging, disabilities, wellness, health communication, social sciences, health management, traditional medicine, and health policies.
- Enhance research capacity and support postgraduate education.
- Provide shared research facilities and optimize resource use.
- Establish local and foreign linkages.
- Manage grants, donations, and financial resources.
- Propose and allocate annual budget.
NIH Component Programs
- Health Product Cluster for self-sufficiency and competitiveness in health product manufacture.
- Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control Cluster for epidemiology and emerging health problems.
- Gerontology and Disabilities Cluster for studies on aging and prevention/rehabilitation of disabilities.
- Social and Humanistic Studies promoting interdisciplinary health research.
- Health care system studies focusing on alternative medicine, policy formulation, and research.
Network of Health Research Institutions
- NIH acts as the central body for a network of health research institutions.
- Collaborates with other institutions outside UP while partners maintain independent administration.
- Partner institutions get access to NIH facilities and support.
Organizational Structure
- Executive Director heads NIH, reporting to UP Manila Chancellor.
- Board of Advisers recommends policy directions.
Executive Director Qualifications
- Must be a recognized scholar in health research and development.
- Appointment and tenure follow UP rules.
Board of Advisers Composition and Tenure
- Composed of Secretary of Health (Chairman), UP Manila Chancellor (Vice-Chairman), PCHRD Executive Director, and two appointed scholars.
- Members serve two-year terms, with key members ex officio.
- Executive Director acts as Member-Secretary.
Functions of the Board of Advisers
- Recommend general directions, priorities, and research areas.
- Propose establishment of component units.
- Generate resources and support.
- Advise on research area development and program administration.
Appointment of Faculty and Staff
- Executive Director organizes NIH human resources per UP regulations and Board approval.
Public Access to NIH Resources
- Public and health institutions have access to research findings and facilities as per implementing rules.
Budgeting and Appropriations
- Initial implementation funded from current component units.
- Future operations included in annual General Appropriations Act.
Implementing Rules and Regulations
- UP Board of Regents shall, within 90 days, coordinate with DOH, DOST, and related organizations to promulgate implementing rules.
Repealing Clause
- All conflicting laws, orders, and rules are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect 15 days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation.