Davao Regional Medical Center

23/10/2025

𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐌-𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐋 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐁 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫

The Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM) – National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (NTRL), through its Engineering Team composed of Engr. Ernesto A. Tolentino, Jr., Mechanical Engineer, and Engr. Alvin B. Dionson, Electronics Technician, under the Laboratory Network Strengthening Section (LNSS), successfully conducted the TB Laboratory Facility Recertification Visit at the TB Culture Laboratory of Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) from October 20 to 22, 2025.

This activity was funded by the Philippine Business for Social Progress’ (PBSP) ACCESS TB Project, as part of its continuing commitment to support the Department of Health’s tuberculosis control initiatives nationwide. The recertification visit, conducted annually, aims to ensure that the TB Laboratory’s facilities and equipment are well-maintained, compliant with national standards, and capable of providing safe, accurate, and continuous DOH program-based services.

The specific objectives of the recertification visit included:
•Performing preventive maintenance and recertification of equipment used in TB diagnostic and culture services;
•Inspecting and evaluating each facility and equipment based on the 2025 Annual TB Culture/Drug Susceptibility Laboratory Facilities and Equipment Management Plan;
•Assessing the safety and operational readiness of the TB Laboratory in accordance with DOH standards;
•Troubleshooting facility and equipment issues to ensure functionality and compliance with required technical standards;
•Identifying further facility or equipment concerns and providing sound recommendations for improvement or corrective actions; and
•Facilitating and monitoring the implementation of recommendations and follow-up actions from previous assessments.

After the evaluation, the RITM Engineering Team declared that the DRMC TB Culture Laboratory is safe to operate and has been officially recertified.

The preparation for this year’s recertification proved more challenging compared to previous years due to the laboratory’s relocation to a newly built and upgraded facility. Despite the adjustments and logistical challenges, the process went smoothly through the collective efforts of the Department of Pathology and Laboratories, the in-house engineering team, and the unwavering support of the hospital’s top management. Their collaboration ensured that all systems and safety standards were met ahead of schedule.

At present, there are only 28 TB Culture Laboratories in the Philippines, with only two (2) located in Region XI. Hence, the successful recertification of the Davao Regional Medical Center TB Culture Laboratory is both a significant milestone and a source of pride. It reaffirms the hospital’s vital role in supporting the national TB elimination program and serving patients not only within Davao del Norte but also from neighboring provinces such as Davao de Oro and Davao Oriental.

The DRMC TB Culture Laboratory continues to uphold its mission of caring for lives and transforming communities, providing high-quality, safe, and reliable laboratory services to the people of Mindanao. This milestone strengthens the hospital’s resolve to remain a beacon of excellence in laboratory medicine and a pillar of support in the fight against tuberculosis.

With this recertification, the Davao Regional Medical Center remains steadfast in its commitment to serve, heal, and inspire—one patient, one community at a time.

20/10/2025

LOOK! Human Milk Donation Response to Cebu City

In response to the solidarity call for human milk support following the recent calamity experienced in Cebu City, the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) Human Milk Donation Program and Human Milk Bank extended assistance through the donation of 200 bottles of pasteurized breast milk, approximately 50 liters (50,000 ml). The donated milk was intended to support infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and babies below six months of age who are in urgent need of safe and adequate nutrition.

The pasteurized breast milk has been successfully delivered and received by the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) in Cebu City on October 17, 2025.

The Davao Regional Medical Center extends its heartfelt gratitude to its dedicated partners in this initiative — the Province of Davao del Norte, whose unwavering support and generosity made this donation possible. The donated milk was primarily sourced from the generous human milk donors of Davao del Norte, whose compassion and selflessness greatly contributed to this humanitarian effort.

In addition, several Local Government Units (LGUs) of Davao de Oro also expressed their support for this program through their active participation and contribution of donated breast milk. Moreover, eligible donor mothers from Davao del Sur also took part in this initiative by donating their expressed breast milk, further strengthening the collective effort to sustain the supply of safe human milk for infants in need. Their involvement reflects strong inter-provincial collaboration and a shared commitment to safeguarding infant health and nutrition, especially during times of crisis.

The Davao Regional Medical Center is deeply honored and humbled by this opportunity to extend help to other regions in need. This initiative exemplifies the institution’s steadfast commitment to promote exclusive breastfeeding, to strengthen the human milk banking network, and to uphold the enduring spirit of bayanihan and solidarity during times of crisis.

Together, let us continue to nurture hope and save lives —

20/10/2025

DRMC - Behavioral Science Unit Marks World Mental Health Month 2025

October 9, 2025 — The Behavioral Science Unit of the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) joined the global observance of World Mental Health Month through its annual celebration, anchored on the 2025 theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”

The learning session featured engaging discussions from Dr. Gioia Fe Ancheta, who provided an overview of the fundamentals of Psychological First Aid (PFA), and Dr. Kristi Anjelo Bayotas, who shared DRMC’s best practices and experiences in delivering Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) during emergencies and crisis situations.

With the support of the Health Education and Promotion Office (HEPO) and the Health Emergency and Disaster Management Unit (HEDMU), the event was successfully conducted, underscoring DRMC’s commitment to advancing mental health awareness and providing accessible, compassionate care during times of crisis.

20/10/2025

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐏𝐆𝐈𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐃𝐬 — 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐃𝐑𝐌𝐂!

Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) proudly congratulates our Postgraduate Interns (PGIs) who successfully passed the October 2025 Physician Licensure Examination.

Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have truly paid off. We are proud of your remarkable achievement!

20/10/2025

DRMC - Behavioral Science Unit Observes World Su***de Prevention Month

September 10, 2025 — The Behavioral Science Unit of the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) conducted its annual commemoration of World Su***de Prevention Month, aligning its activities with this year’s global theme, “Changing the Narrative on Su***de.”

The learning session aimed to raise awareness about su***de and highlight effective prevention methods. Resource speakers included Dr. Ofelia Marie Hofeleña, who discussed su***de awareness, and Dr. Esper Ann Castañeda, who shared evidence-based approaches to su***de prevention.

In partnership with the Health Education and Promotion Office, the event was successfully carried out, underscoring DRMC’s continued commitment to promoting mental health and preventing su***de through education, compassion, and community collaboration.

17/10/2025

Flu (Influenza) is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs all parts of the respiratory system. The flu is caused by a virus.

The Department of Health (DOH) reported more than 5,000 cases of influenza-like illnesses as of January 2025. The unprecedented severity of the 2024–2025 influenza season has served as a stark reminder of the virus’s ongoing threat to public health.

With record-high pediatric cases, elevated hospitalization rates, and widespread complications, the need for robust preventive measures has never been more apparent.

The DOH further reminds the public to practice proper handwashing, maintain a healthy diet, and stay hydrated. Additionally, individuals experiencing symptoms are advised to wear face masks to help prevent the spread of the virus.

17/10/2025

12/10/2025

DRMC Ward Extension Infirmary: Six Years of Service, Strength, and Compassion
October 8, 2025 | San Isidro, Davao del Norte

Six years ago, the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) Ward Extension Infirmary opened its doors in San Isidro with a vision — to extend quality healthcare services to more communities in Davao del Norte. On October 8, 2025, that vision was proudly celebrated, as the infirmary marked its 6th Founding Anniversary, a testament to its enduring commitment to care, compassion, and excellence.

The day began with a spirit of gratitude and unity. A motorcade set the tone for the celebration, followed by a solemn Holy Mass that gave thanks for six meaningful years of service. The event officially opened with messages from DRMC’s leaders and partners. Dr. Rodel M. Flores, OIC-Chief of Hospital, welcomed guests and staff with heartfelt appreciation, while Dr. Bryan O. Dalid, Medical Center Chief II, delivered an inspiring message highlighting DRMC’s continuous pursuit of governance and quality healthcare. Messages of support were also shared by Hon. Silvano B. Gaje, Municipal Mayor of San Isidro, and Hon. De Carlo Uy, Representative of the 1st Congressional District duly represented by Vice Mayor Jacinissa Cafe-Binasbas, affirming the government’s support for the hospital’s mission.

A Medical-Surgical Mission followed, embodying the hospital’s purpose of bringing healthcare closer to the people. Through free consultations and minor procedures, DRMC reaffirmed its pledge to serve the underprivileged — a true reflection of its tagline, “Caring for Life, Changing Lives.”

The afternoon festivities transformed the celebration into a joyful gathering of camaraderie and talent. Staff and guests enjoyed performances and contests such as “Your Face Sounds Familiar,” “DRMC EXT Hot Mama 2025,” and “Amazing Race,” capped by the announcement of winners and an early dinner that fostered friendship and shared pride.

As the DRMC Ward Extension Infirmary celebrates this milestone, it stands as a shining example of resilience, teamwork, and dedication. Six years of unwavering service is not just a number—it is a story of lives touched, communities healed, and a healthcare institution that continues to grow stronger with every year.

Indeed, DRMC Ward Extension Infirmary is more than a facility—it is a symbol of hope, compassion, and the unending pursuit of excellence in public health.

12/10/2025

12/10/2025

12/10/2025

With the recent series of powerful earthquakes and aftershocks that struck the Davao Region, it’s important to stay alert and prepared!

Here are some essential safety reminders and tips on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake.

Let’s all do our part to keep ourselves and our families safe.

Safety Reminders from DRMC HEDMU👇🏻