In a strong push to enhance research and development (R&D) initiatives in the province, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with Davao de Oro State College (DDOSC), successfully conducted a two-day Research Proposal Writeshop on February 26–27, 2026, at the Audio-Visual Room of the DDOSC Main Campus in Compostela, Davao de Oro.

The activity was organized in preparation for the upcoming DOST Call for Proposals for 2026, aiming to guide researchers, faculty members, and institutional representatives in developing competitive and high-quality research proposals aligned with national priorities.

The program formally opened with welcome remarks from DDOSC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay, duly represented by Dr. Jennifer T. Pelegrino, Director for the Production Services Division. In her message, Dr. Pelegrino warmly welcomed stakeholders from public and private institutions and expressed gratitude to DOST for spearheading the initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in advancing the province’s research landscape.

Engr. Laarnie D. Albacite, Officer-in-Charge Provincial Science and Technology Director of DOST Davao de Oro, delivered the rationale of the activity. She underscored the significance of strengthening research capabilities at the local level to ensure that proposed projects address real-world community needs while aligning with DOST’s strategic priorities.

Providing detailed guidance on the 2026 funding cycle, Christine Esther Flor L. Catoera, RPh, from DOST Regional Office XI, presented the DOST Call for Proposals and shared practical insights into crafting impactful and fundable research proposals. Meanwhile, Mr. Jonel John F. Zabala, RCh, Science Research Specialist II of DOST Davao de Oro, facilitated the hands-on workshop sessions, guiding participants through the crafting, refinement, and presentation of their research concepts.

The writeshop gathered a diverse group of stakeholders from both public and private institutions, including PAO Investments, the Provincial Health Office (PHO), the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRO), the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), MARACO, the PLGU Davao de Oro Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), DTI Davao de Oro, MFDI, PLGU, and Tontin Agriculture.

Faculty members and representatives from academic institutions also actively participated, including DDOSC, the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP), Colegio de Nabunturan, and Monkayo College of Arts, Science and Technology (MONCAST).

Serving as panelists during the proposal presentations were Dr. Nathan Ray A. Alim, Assistant Regional Director for the Research Development and Innovation Section of DOST, and Dr. Gilbert A. Importante, Director of SMAARDEC. Their expert feedback provided valuable direction to participants in enhancing the technical, scientific, and societal relevance of their proposals.

The two-day activity aimed to capacitate participants in crafting responsive, innovative, and high-quality research proposals with strong potential for DOST funding support. More importantly, the writeshop opened avenues for strengthening institutional research portfolios, securing external funding, and fostering collaborative partnerships across sectors.

Through initiatives such as this, DOST and its partner institutions continue to reinforce their commitment to advancing science, technology, and innovation contributing not only to provincial development but also to national scientific advancement. (Jayver Illescas)