This endorsement marks a critical milestone in the development of ANIMO HTIC as a proposed HeaRTNovation Hub, positioning DLSMHSI as a key institutional driver of health research translation and technology development within the CALABARZON region. It reflects the confidence of DOST-CALABARZON in the Institute’s capacity to implement a structured, innovation-driven platform that bridges research, technology transfer, and commercialization. With the endorsement secured, the project now moves forward to the final stage of submission to DOST-PCHRD, where it will undergo national-level evaluation under the HeaRTNovation Hub Program. The complete proposal outlines the Hub’s implementation strategy, governance structure, capacity-building initiatives, and expected outputs, including collaborative networks, patentable technologies, and market-ready innovations within the project period. This progression underscores DLSMHSI’s growing role in the national health research and innovation landscape —demonstrating its readiness to contribute to the country’s agenda for science, technology, and health system advancement. “From regional confidence to national pursuit—innovation begins with a shared vision. ANIMO-HTIC moves forward, transforming research into real-world health solutions.”

The visit aimed to help DLSL gain insights into best practices as it explores offering new health sciences programs. Discussions covered curriculum development, laboratory facilities, academic operations, and student training. The activity also strengthened collaboration among Lasallian institutions to advance quality healthcare education and develop future healthcare professionals, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.

Representing DLSMHSI were President Dr. Antonio Ramos, Vice Chancellor for Academics Dr. Naomi de Aro, and Director of Academic Partnerships and External Relations Dr. Cheyen Molon. The highlight of the three-day event took place on May 7, with the official Signing Ceremony of the HLU-WURI Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MMOU) 2026. The agreement establishes global collaboration in AI-based education and research, innovation-driven academic programs, faculty and student exchange, and institutional policy innovation. Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the initiative supports SDG 4 – Quality Education and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting the Institution's commitment to actively shape the global future of health sciences education.

The assessment visit brought together distinguished AUN-QA assessors: Prof. Dr. Fauza Ab. Ghaffar, Dr. Le Thi Giao Chi, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Van Thuyen, Prof. Dr. Rusnadi Padjung, Assoc. Prof. Chavalit Wongse-ek, and Assoc. Prof. Foong Chan Choong, underscoring the Institute's commitment to international quality standards in health professions education. The program opened on April 27 with a welcome address from DLSMHSI President Dr. Antonio B. Ramos, followed by opening remarks from Assoc. Prof. Chavalit Wongse-ek, on behalf of the AUN-QA team. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic exchange of plaques, marking the formal start of the evaluation process. Throughout the first day, the assessors conducted interviews with the College of Rehabilitation Sciences leadership and toured the campus, where they also met key support staff. These engagements showcased the Institute’s learning environment and advanced facilities. Students likewise had the opportunity to share their academic experiences and reflect on their learning journey. On the second day, discussions extended to alumni and employers, providing valuable insights into graduate competencies, workplace performance, and the alignment of DLSMHSI’s curriculum with global healthcare industry demands. The three-day assessment concluded with a closing ceremony where the AUN-QA team presented their preliminary findings and commendations. These insights serve as a strategic guide for continuous improvement, reinforcing DLSMHSI’s commitment to academic quality and excellence.

The partnership was formally marked on March 16, 2026, underscoring DLSMHSI’s proactive adoption of digital solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and healthcare delivery. Amid the increasing volume of patient inquiries across the digital and messaging platforms of De La Salle University Medical Center (DLSUMC), DLSMHSI continues to strengthen and enhance its responsive and scalable solutions. Through this initiative, AI agents are integrated with hospital systems to support the automated patient inquiry handling while enabling convenient scheduling of laboratory and radiology services in its pilot implementation. This initiative represents a significant step in DLSMHSI’s digital transformation journey, leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency and elevate the overall patient experience. By introducing AI as a “digital front door,” the Institute aims to better manage rising patient demand, reduce response times, and provide more accessible and timely healthcare services. Aligned with its strategic direction, DLSMHSI continues to explore innovative solutions that strengthen service delivery while supporting its healthcare professionals in focusing on higher-value patient care. As the initiative progresses, DLSMHSI remains committed to working closely with its partners and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this solution, further reinforcing its vision of a more responsive, efficient, and digitally enabled healthcare environment.

The activity, held at the Cancer Institute Auditorium, opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Ishmael R. Dimaren, Medical Center Chief II, who highlighted the importance of collaboration among healthcare institutions in advancing service excellence. The DLSMHSI delegation was led by Dr. Antonio B. Ramos, President; Mr. Ferdinand L. Berba, Chancellor; and Dr. Conrado P. Crisostomo, Vice Chancellor for Hospital Operations, together with key administrators across hospital operations, facilities management, supply management, and strategic management. CRMC presented its institutional profile, highlighting key milestones, services, and ongoing developments. This was followed by presentations from major units, including Engineering and Facilities Management, the Integrated Hospital Operations and Management Program (IHOMP), Nursing Services, and the Patient and Occupational Safety Unit (POSU), showcasing integrated systems and patient-centered approaches to care. A guided hospital tour featured key facilities such as the Cancer Institute, Emergency Disaster Management Unit, Operating Room Complex, Intensive Care Unit, wards, and the Radiology Department. The DLSMHSI delegation expressed strong appreciation for CRMC’s expansion initiatives, modern medical equipment, and exemplary hospital management. Notably, the hospital’s efficient electronic systems, including real-time tracking of patient referrals, ward census, and staff assignments, were recognized for significantly improving service delivery. CRMC’s strong community engagement and patient-centered programs were likewise commended, along with the leadership’s support and the staff’s professionalism and hospitality. The visit affirmed CRMC as a model institution and a benchmarking partner worth emulating. The activity served as a valuable platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, reinforcing both institutions’ commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and excellence in healthcare delivery.

The Lingkod Lasalyano student volunteers continue their mission through Linggo’skwela, a Sunday school program that provides opportunities for volunteers to extend their service to the community, particularly to the children of outsourced employees of the institution. Grounded in the Lasallian core values of spirit of faith, zeal for service, and communion in mission, the initiative fosters a nurturing space where children can grow, learn, and build meaningful memories. Linggo’skwela is composed of simple, yet meaningful activities and lessons rooted in the Word of God. This transformative experience helps form children in the Spirit of Faith, while allowing volunteers to deepen their own zeal for service, creating an environment where every child feels loved, seen, and supported. The beauty of Linggo’skwela lies in its ability to provide children with a space to develop their abilities with guidance from the volunteers, while also providing student volunteers the opportunity to serve and accompany the next generation. Despite coming from diverse academic backgrounds, student volunteers are united by a single mission: following the footsteps of St. John Baptist de La Salle to uplift the lives of others, especially children. Many of the children have also begun reflecting on what they learn during the sessions—practicing prayer and learning how to be helpful to others. Ultimately, the program helps them build a stronger connection with God while creating a space where they can freely express themselves. As of April 12, 2026, Linggo’skwela has officially welcomed its third batch of participants. Through collaborative activities, the children built meaningful relationships with fellow participants and the Lingkod Lasalyano student volunteers. The program also encourages acts of service that reflect the teachings and example of St. John Baptist de La Salle. Linggo’skwela demonstrates that even the smallest acts of kindness can create a lasting impact and help build a compassionate community where everyone grows together.

The benchmarking visit was attended by key administrators of DLSMHSI, including Assistant Professor Dan Clarence A. Diaz, Dean of the College of Medical Imaging and Therapy (CMIT); Dr. Cheyen E. Molon, Director for Academic Partnerships and External Relations; and Assistant Professor Alfred Benedict A. Bayan, Program Director of the Department of Nuclear Medicine Technology. They were warmly received by the administrators of Saint Louis University, namely Dr. Ann P. Opina, Dean of the School of Nursing, Allied Health and Biological Sciences; Dr. Allan Jay Espiritu, Associate Dean of the same school; and Professor Dionisio Noel Valbuena, Head of the Radiologic Technology Department. This initiative forms part of the College’s broader strategy to continuously enhance the quality of its academic programs, particularly the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology. The benchmarking activity aimed to provide a platform for the meaningful exchange of knowledge and best practices between institutions. Specifically, the visit focused on gaining insights into SLU’s approaches in curriculum design, teaching and learning strategies, assessment methodologies, and licensure examination preparation. In addition to learning from SLU’s established practices, the benchmarking activity also provided an opportunity for the College to present its Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology program. During the discussion, the CMIT administrators shared key aspects of the program, including its structure, goals, and anticipated impact, and explored potential areas for collaboration should SLU express interest in offering a similar program in the future. Overall, the benchmarking activity at St. Louis University proved to be a valuable endeavor in reinforcing academic excellence, strengthening institutional linkages, and promoting innovation, particularly in the field of medical imaging and therapy. More importantly, these efforts contribute to the continuous advancement of healthcare education in the country, supporting the development of highly competent and globally competitive professionals who can respond to national and international healthcare needs.

The collaboration connects the Institute’s College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CRS) with the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy to expand opportunities for students and faculty. Planned initiatives include visiting student programs, participation in the USC Chan Summer Occupational Therapy Immersion (SOTI), and guest lectures by international experts. Through this partnership, DLSMHSI continues to grow its global academic network while enhancing the preparation of future occupational therapy practitioners committed to excellence and service.