All submissions are processed online through the Research Coordination Center (RCC). Once your research proposal has been approved by your adviser, panel, or department, send the complete and final version to:

rcc@spcdavao.edu.ph

Make sure your submission includes all required attachments (e.g., informed consent forms, research instruments, endorsement letters), as incomplete submissions may delay the review process. It is advisable to save all submission confirmations for your records.

The Research Coordination Center (RCC) oversees three main committees, each responsible for a specific area of ethical and safety review:

• Research Ethics Committee (REC) – handles studies involving human participants
• Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) – handles studies involving biological materials or agents
• Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) – handles studies involving animal subjects

Depending on the nature of your research, your proposal may be reviewed by one or more of these committees. For example, a study involving both human blood samples and laboratory animals may require clearance from more than one committee.

The turnaround time depends on the type of review your proposal undergoes:

• Expedited Review – within 14 working days. This applies to studies with minimal risk to participants, such as those involving anonymous surveys or secondary data analysis.
• Full Board Review – within 30 working days. This applies to studies with greater than minimal risk, such as those involving vulnerable populations, invasive procedures, or sensitive topics.

Timelines may be affected by the completeness of your submission and the volume of proposals being reviewed at the time. Researchers are encouraged to submit early to allow time for possible revisions.

You are required to first secure a Certification Precondition (CP) or clearance from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) before your proposal can proceed to ethics review. This is a legal requirement under Philippine law (Republic Act No. 8371, or the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act) to ensure that research involving Indigenous communities respects their rights, culture, and Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC). Without this certification, the REC will not be able to process your application.

The REC is responsible for reviewing research proposals that involve human participants. Its main functions include:

• Ensuring that participants’ rights, dignity, safety, and welfare are protected throughout the research process
• Evaluating informed consent procedures to confirm participants understand what they are agreeing to
• Assessing potential risks versus benefits of the study
• Ensuring compliance with national research ethics guidelines (such as those from the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board) and institutional policies

The IBC evaluates research involving biological materials, such as microorganisms, recombinant DNA, biohazardous substances, or infectious agents. Its responsibilities include:

• Assessing the level of biosafety risk associated with the research
• Ensuring proper containment, handling, and disposal procedures are in place
• Verifying that laboratory practices comply with national and international biosafety standards
• Protecting researchers, staff, and the surrounding environment from potential biohazards

The IACUC reviews and monitors research protocols involving animal subjects. Its key responsibilities include:

• Ensuring the humane treatment and care of animals used in research, teaching, or testing
• Reviewing procedures to minimize pain, distress, and unnecessary use of animals, in line with the 3Rs principle (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement)
• Verifying that housing, feeding, and veterinary care meet acceptable welfare standards
• Ensuring compliance with the Animal Welfare Act (RA 8485) and other relevant regulations