The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) teamed up with the Philippine Association of Research Managers, Inc. (PHILARM) for the conduct of the 5th International Research, Development and Extension (RDE) Management Congress and 29th National PHILARM Convention on December 9-10, 2021 via Zoom.
Themed, “Managing RDE towards Ensuring Food Security in the New Normal,” the two-day event aimed to encourage its members, researchers, and research extension managers to promote and share lessons and best practices in managing RDE programs and research institutions. This year’s congress aimed to further enhance international collaboration among RDE managers in the ASEAN countries. It focused on strengthening RDE management capability of PHILARM members and research organizations in the ASEAN.
In his message, Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director communicated his hopes that the output of the Congress will drive innovations in RDE management. He emphasized that managing RDE as part of a smart governance will help the country in food security for the people as we approach the new normal and benefit the stakeholders of food systems. He strongly believes that RDE managers and leaders can certainly make a difference.
“Your support and cooperation will indeed contribute to our journey towards effective RDE management in the country. We definitely need managers and leaders who shall mold and shape generations to be more creative and innovative towards more resilient and adaptive Philippines,” concluded Dr. Ebora.
In her keynote speech, Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development, highlighted DOST’s response in ensuring food security in the new normal. These include the Smart Food Value Chain Program (SFVCP), GALING-PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 Program, and Science for Change Program (NICER, RDLEAD, CRADLE, and BIST).
Usec. Guevara underscored the following for PHILARM’s consideration: (1) alignment of all R&D projects and programs with the Harmonized National R&D Agenda (HNRDA); (2) upholding the DOST Monitoring and Evaluation protocol that starts with the engagement of the researchers and ends with impact assessment of finished projects and programs; (3) more participation in the National R&D Conference; (4) strengthening technology transfer at all levels in the research ecosystem; (5) enhancing competencies for R&D project monitoring; and (6) joining the international network of research management societies. She also encouraged everyone to support the passage of the Science for Change Bill in the Senate. Usec. Guevara also received the William D. Dar Research Leadership award.
Present in the event were representatives from national offices of government institutions, national and international R&D institutions, higher education institutions (HEIs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and private organizations. One of the highlights of the event was the conferment of the PHILARM’s 2021 awards on Best Paper, Best Poster, Outstanding Regional Chapter, Social Responsibility, Outstanding Research Manager, and William D. Dar Research Leadership. Dr. Juanito T. Batalon, Director of Agricultural Resources Management Research Division of DOST-PCAARRD, served as the Chairperson of Awards and Recognition Committee.
The event culminated with the PHILARM members’ general assembly wherein new members, incoming officers, and board of directors (BOD) took their oath. Dr. Merian C. Mani, 2021 PHILARM President, turned over her leadership to Dr. Melvin B Carlos as the incoming 2022 PHILARM President. Dr. Carlos is DOST-PCAARRD’s Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services (DED-ARMSS). PHILARM BOD members and officers were composed of some PCAARRD staff and officials namely Dr. Batalon as Business Manager, Dr. Marcelino U. Siladan of Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD) as Public Relations Officer, and Dr. Fezoil Luz C. Decena of Institution Development Division (IDD) as Ex-Officio Member.
Other elected PHILARM BOD members and officers were the following: Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta of Marinduque State College (MSC), Dr. Miladis M. Afidchao of Isabela State University (ISU), Dr. Almira G. Magcawas of Cavite State University (CvSU), Dr. Adrian P. Ybañez of Cebu Technological University (CTU), Dr. Fabio G. Enriquez (DA RFO 7), Dr. Elvira C. Torres (DA RFO 8), Dr. Merian C. Mani of Romblon State University (RSU), Mr. Joell H. Lales (DA-BAR), Ms. Chonalyn A. Pascua (DA RFO 2), Dr. Reynaldo P. Ramos (RSU), and Dr. Joseph C. Pepito (CTU).
This congress supports the DOST-PCAARRD’s continuing efforts of building the capacities of key RDE personnel not only in RDE management but as well as in institutional governance. The Council provides augmentation funds to qualified professional, scientific, and academic organizations that pursue activities in support of the Council’s advocacies, banner programs, and goals (Christhaline A. Arellano, DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services).