By Daniel P. Tapaoan, Jr. 

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña lauded the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) for implementing comprehensive research programs, along with the agency’s vision of upholding science for the Filipino people.

During his visit at the university last February 18, dela Peña commended the university for its dynamic and wide research culture “which addresses social problems, particularly the needs of the region.” 

With this, Dela Peña re-affirmed the agency’s full support to MMSU’s research initiatives, especially its niche centers in the regions (NICERs) such as the Coastal Engineering and Management Research and Development (R&D) Center and the Garlic and other Agri-Food Condiments R&D Center. 

De la Peña visited various agencies in Region I to assess DOST-funded projects. Joining him were DOST Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, Filipino Inventors Society Producers Cooperative President Francisco O. Pagayon, and DOST Regional Director Armando Q. Ganal. 

In a program at the MMSU Teatro Ilocandia, the university awarded a plaque of recognition to DOST secretary for its full support to the university’s R&D projects, especially for continuously deploying balik-scientists in the university.  

“We assure you that we will pay forward the support that you have given us through sustaining the two NICERs, our research on climate change, health development and other programs aimed at a more inclusive socio-economic development for the region,” University President Shirley C. Agrupis said.  

Besides the two NICERs, the university also houses seven research centers: the National Bioenergy Research & Innovation Center; Tuklas-Lunas Development Center; Garlic Research Center; Regional Research and Training Center for Climate Change Studies; Natural Resources Conservation and Management Center; Regional Center for Innovative Materials in Emerging Applications; and, the Humanities, Social Sciences, Communication and Education Research Center.

Recently, the university also developed the MMSU e-farms, a digital platform that facilitates easier information retrieval for the university’s research, extension, and business directorates through its information systems and data analytics tools. (JVBT, StratCom)