By Karen de la Cruz, STRATCOM Correspondent

Mariano Marcos State University ignited interest in research and development (R&D) by hosting the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) 2025 National Research and Development Call Conference: Northern Luzon Cluster on January 13 at the Teatro Ilocandia. The event urged researchers and innovators to submit research projects in priority areas for 2027 funding.

Bringing together researchers, educators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from Regions 1, 2, 3, and the Cordillera Administrative Region, DOST Regional 1 Director Teresita A. Tabaog emphasized the crucial role of research and development in achieving sustainable growth and progress in the country, specifically in Northern Luzon.

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc underscored the ongoing partnerships and collaboration between the province and DOST. He pointed out the importance of research and data-driven decisions to the provincial government. 

In his keynote address, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., represented by Undersecretary for Research Development Leah J. Buendia, emphasized the role of science, technology, and innovation as major drivers of national development. “Many, if not all sectors, rely on it to increase their productivity, create valuable innovation for their products, and ensure efficiency in the delivery of basic public services.” 

DOST Undersecretary Buendia praised the successful DOST-funded projects in various agencies and state universities and colleges in Northern Luzon, including the black garlic production program of MMSU.

The plenary sessions also featured presentations of priority areas of DOST for each portfolio by the three undersecretaries of the department, such as Undersecretary for Science and Technical Innovation Maridon Sahagun, Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho Mabborang, and Undersecretary Buendia.

The presentation of priority areas by various councils of DOST was also delivered. The National Research Council of the Philippines Executive Director Bernardo Sepeda discussed basic research, while Philippine Council for Health Research and Development Executive Director Jaime Montoya focused on health. Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Executive Director Reynaldo Ebora covered agriculture, aquatic resources, and natural resources. Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development Executive Director Enrico Paringit addressed industry, energy, and emerging technologies and Ms. Amela Razo, the Special Projects Division Chief, provided insights on proposal submission in the Project Management Information System.

In the afternoon, DOST representatives visited the DOST-funded research and development projects at MMSU, such as Niche Centers in the Regions for Research and Development (NICER) Garlic and Other Agri-Condiments Center, the NICER Coastal Engineering and Research Center (COASTER), and the Tuklas Lunas Development Center (TLDC).

As MMSU continues to champion excellence in science education and research, MMSU OIC-President Prima Fe R. Franco recognized the event as another milestone in the university’s mission for innovation and progress in the region and beyond.

The DOST  National Research and Development Call Conference 2025 concluded with a call to action for sustained investment in R&D  and stronger collaboration among academia, government, and industry  It will also be conducted in different parts of the Philippines and is said to serve as a primer among Filipino researchers on the department's different priority areas in science, technology, and innovation.