The collection of data and samples from Ilonggo partner-volunteers for the two projects of the Filipino Genomes Research Program (FGRP) has started.
The two projects being undertaken by the DNA Analysis Laboratory of the Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, and UP Visayas are the “Filipino Forensics Genomics” and “Filipino Genomes: History, Evolution, Origins, and Applications.”
As of writing, about 10 partner-volunteers have undergone the process of data and sample collection, which started on Nov. 28-29 at the UPV Graduate and Continuing Education Building (GCEB), Iloilo City campus and on Nov. 30 at the Regional Research Center, UPV Miagao campus.
The partner-volunteers underwent an orientation, signed consent forms, and disclosed personal information in an interview before their samples, specifically saliva, were collected.
Details on their height, weight, skin color, head size, and 3D facial image were also gathered.
More volunteers are set to undergo the same process on Dec. 1 at the Iloilo City Community College (ICCC) and on Dec. 2 in various barangays in Iloilo City.
Through the FGRP, the partner institutions are conducting a research study on the genomic diversity of various Filipino ethnolinguistic groups. The program is funded by the Department of Science and Technology Philippine Council for Health Research and Development.
Individuals who are interested in becoming partner volunteers may contact Ms. Claire Juanico, FGRP Iloilo Research Collaborator, at +639153370408 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Partner-volunteers must be at least 18-years-old and were born in Iloilo City, with parents and maternal and paternal grandparents who were also born in the said city. (With sources from FGRP)
