DOST ILOCOS REGION, DOST-PCIEERD STREGTHEN RESEARCH CULTURE THROUGH CAPACITY BUILDING ON R&D PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT
To strengthen the research and development (R&D) capabilities of academic and research institutions in the Ilocos Region, the Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region (DOST Ilocos Region), through the Ilocos Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (ICIEERD), in partnership with the DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), conducted a two-day Capacity Building on DOST R&D Proposal Development on June 17–18, 2026 at Ynad’s Place Hotel and Restaurant, City of San Fernando, La Union.
The activity gathered researchers, faculty members, and representatives from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), and various research organizations across the region to enhance their competencies in developing responsive, competitive, and fundable R&D proposals aligned with regional and national development priorities.
DOST Ilocos Sur Provincial Director Jordan L. Abad delivered the welcome remarks and rationale of the activity, emphasizing the importance of capacitating researchers and institutions in developing R&D proposals that address priority needs and contribute to inclusive development.
Meanwhile, Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr., President of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and Chairperson of ICIEERD, highlighted the consortium’s role in advancing collaborative research, innovation, and technology-driven development in the region.
The activity featured a series of lecture sessions facilitated by experts from DOST- PCIEERD, namely Ms. Glenda Dorcas T. Sacbibit, Supervising Science Research Specialist (SRS); Ms. Elaine P. Haftorn, SRS; Mr. Julius L. Mayorga, Project Technical Specialist III; Mr. Xyrelle G. Villacote, Project Technical Assistant IV (PTA IV);Mr. Lan Carlo L. Balabag , PTA IV; and Mr. Abner Dorado, PAA V. Discussions covered the overview of DOST R&D priorities and funding mechanism, key elements of a fundable R&D proposal, common challenges and best practices in proposal writing, and an orientation on the DOST Project Management Information System (DPMIS).
Participants also engaged in guided proposal development workshops, peer review, coaching, and mentoring sessions to further strengthen their research concepts for potential DOST funding support.
Mr. Decth-1180 P. Libunao, Assistant Regional Director for Field Operations of DOST Ilocos Region, concluded the session. In his message, he emphasized the vital role of research and innovation in addressing real-world challenges and improving the lives of Filipinos, highlighting DOST Ilocos Region’s commitment to ensuring that science and technology create tangible impacts for communities through “Agham na Ramdam”.
Through initiatives such as this, DOST Ilocos Region and DOST-PCIEERD continue to nurture a stronger research and innovation culture in the region by empowering researchers and institutions to develop impactful R&D projects that contribute to scientific advancement, regional competitiveness, and sustainable development.
