In a strategic effort to champion science, technology, and innovation (STI) in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector through international collaboration and knowledge exchange, representatives from James Cook University (JCU) Australia paid a courtesy visit to the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) in Los Baños, Laguna on April 14, 2025. The visit served as a venue to discuss and conceptualize the proposed PCAARRD-Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) collaboration on shrimp research. The initiative aims to address food security and sustainability in aquatic resources by enhancing shrimp health and production through advanced selective breeding, disease surveillance, and novel therapeutic approaches. The delegation was welcomed by DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora and key officials from the Council, including Inland Aquatic Resources Research Division (IARRD) Director Adelaida T. Calpe, Policy Coordination and Monitoring Division (PCMD) Director Lilian G. Bondoc, and Institution Development Division (IDD) Director Fezoil Luz C. Decena.
DOST-PCAARRD, led by Executive Director Reynaldo Ebora, along with IARRD Director Adelaida T. Calpe warmly welcomed Dr. Dean Jerry and Dr. David Jones of JCU Australia. (Image credit: DOST-PCAARRD)
Dr. Ebora shared the Council’s ongoing collaboration with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), emphasizing joint efforts in research and development, as well as capacity building initiatives. He also highlighted the International Graduate Research and Education Assistantship for Technology (iGREAT), one of the scholarship platforms under the Philippine Department of Science and Technology-ACIAR (PhilDOST-ACIAR) Fellowship Program. Dr. Decena proudly shared that two Filipino scholars were granted the opportunity to study at JCU Australia through the iGREAT program. Also present during the activity are research partners and industry experts who actively engaged in the development of the shrimp research collaboration. Key representatives from partner academic institutions include Dr. Arthuro Llusima, Mr. Klowie Pagente, and Mr. Kreighton Cadorna of the University of the Philippines Diliman-Marine Science Institute; Dr. Christopher Marlowe Caipang of the UPV Division of Biological Sciences; and Dr. Mary Beth Maningas and Ms. Krisha Marie Saquilayan of the University of Santo Tomas.
As a leading institution in marine science, biodiversity, and tropical health, among others, JCU remains committed to addressing global issues through research and innovation.
As DOST-PCAARRD strengthens its international linkages, the visit from JCU Australia reaffirmed the value of global cooperation in strengthening research ecosystems and developing science-based solutions for a sustainable AANR sector.
(From left to right) Ms. Rizza B. Ramoran, Project Staff of the Inland Aquatic Resources Research Division (IARRD); Ms. Krisha Marie Saquilayan, Project Technical Assistant IV of University of Santo Tomas (UST); Ms. Geraldin Mae D. Olaer, Science Research Specialist II of IARRD; Dr. Mary Beth Maningas, Professor of UST Department of Biological Sciences; Dr. Fezoil Luz C. Decena, Director of Institute Development Division (IDD); Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director; Dr. Dean Jerry,Director of ARC Research Hub for Supercharging Tropical Aquaculture Through Genetic Solutions and the Tropical Futures Institute of James Cook University (JCU) Australia; Dr. Adelaida T. Calpe, Director of IARRD; Dr. David Jones, Senior Research Fellow - Breeding Program Management of JCU Australia; Dr. Christopher Marlowe Caipang, Associate Professor of University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) Division of Biological Sciences; Dr. Arthuro Lluisima, Research Professor of University of the Philippines Diliman Marine Science Institute (UP MSI); Mr. Klowie Pagente, Project Technical Specialist of UP MSI, Mr. Kreighton Cadorna; Project Technical Specialist of UP MSI; and Dr. Lilian G. Bondoc, Director of the Policy Coordination and Monitoring Division. (Image credit: DOST-PCAARRD)
The participants, evaluators, and TTPD staff during the en banc proposal evaluation (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
To advance technology transfer efforts, the Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD) of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) spearheaded a series of en banc proposal evaluation sessions on February 24–25 and March 25–26, 2025, in Los Baños, Laguna.
In these sessions, project proposals that emerged from the training on Technology Transfer Modality-Based Programs/Projects, held in 2024 were refined for potential funding in 2025.
A total of 41 proposals were evaluated—21 from 13 agencies in Batch 1 and 20 from 14 agencies in Batch 2. The event gathered dedicated extension and deployment practitioners from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to fine-tune their proposals, ensuring stronger alignment with technology transfer objectives.
Dir. Noel A. Catibog warmly welcomed the participants and evaluators. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
TTPD Director Noel A. Catibog welcomed the participants and evaluators. He commended everyone’s commitment and emphasized the importance of well-prepared proposals. He also advised that proposals requiring minor revisions should be finalized for immediate consideration, while those needing major revisions should be resubmitted in the next call within the year. Moreover, only proponents without outstanding unliquidated projects with DOST and PCAARRD are eligible and only solicited proposals will be accepted to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements. Dir. Catibog also highlighted key areas for improvement in their proposals, such as: a well-founded rationale and clearly defined objectives, strong S&T interventions, capability-building components, and funding allocation for benchmarking and cross-learning activities. Additionally, he emphasized the necessity of securing Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) for projects involving indigenous peoples and ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. He expressed optimism that this batch of proposals would contribute to theKwentong Tech Trans program, a science communication initiative that highlights stories of how S&T-based innovations are implemented in local communities, transforming lives through accessible and impactful technologies.
Evaluators and S&T consultants, including Dr. Emilia T. Quinitio of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), Mr. Joselito A. Payot from the private sector, and DOST-PCAARRD's Industry Strategic Science and Technology Program (ISP) Managers, provided insights and recommendations for proposal refinement.
Proponents and evaluators during the presentation proper and open forum. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
After the evaluation, feedback from evaluators and DOST-PCAARRD staff are integrated in the revised proposals before uploading to the DOST Project Management Information System (DPMIS) for further review and potential funding consideration.
This en banc proposal evaluation initiative not only accelerates the project evaluation and funding process but also fosters collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in technology transfer. By refining the proposals, this initiative paves the way for impactful and long-term advancements in science, technology, and innovation (STI) across the country.
The Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) hosted the Agri-Innovation Forum 2025 themed, “Sisidlan: Igniting Minds to Transform Agri-Aqua InnoVention,” on March 17-21, 2025 at the Bren Z. Guiao Memorial Multi-Purpose Center, PSAU, Magalang, Pampanga.
The five-day event showcased groundbreaking ideas and promoted collaboration among stakeholders in Central Luzon. It concluded with the ceremonial signing of the pledge of commitment by the members of the Board of Advisors (BOA) for the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD)-supported PSAU-SIBUL Technology Business Incubator (TBI) and a pitching session that promoted the agri-aqua innovations of researchers and students in the region.
PSAU President Anita G. David expressed her gratitude to the partner state universities and colleges (SUCs), sponsors, and participants of the pitching event and highlighted the event as a way for researchers and students to present their innovative ideas to both public and private sectors to improve the state of agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector in the country.
In a virtual message, Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) Deputy Director Mr. Joselito G. Florendo motivated participants in keeping the momentum going for agricultural innovations in transforming the future of agri-aqua in Southeast Asia.
TTPD-PCAARRD, BSU, and PSAU officials and staff during the viewing of the students' posters at the Agri-Innovation Forum 2025. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
On behalf of DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora, Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD) Director Noel A. Catibog also encouraged participants in licensing their technologies to potential investors and collaborating with programs such as the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) that can aid in commercializing these technologies.
The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) Assistant Director Joell H. Lales expressed his interest in supporting projects to ensure the development of agriculture and fisheries across the country.
Meanwhile, PSAU Project Leader and Director of the Office of Innovation Walter L. Pacunana encouraged collaborations among academia, government agencies, and farming communities for a good future of our farmers and fisherfolk for a more sustainable Philippines.
The pitching event for researchers and students happened simultaneously at the Bren Z. Guiao Memorial Multi-Purpose Center and Audio Visual Room. Moreover, the PSAU-SIBUL TBI Board of Advisors’ Pledge of Commitment commenced at the University Food Center Conference Room.
The PSAU-SIBUL Technology Business Incubator (TBI) Board of Advisors during the Pledge of Commitment at the University Food Center Conference Room, PSAU, Magalang, Pampanga. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Winners of the pitching for the Research Category are the following:
Nutri-Quillos, PSAU (1st Place)
Grain Probe Moisture Meter, Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) (2nd Place)
Chevon-based Food Products, Central Luzon State University (CLSU) (3rd Place)
Mango Insect Pest Monitoring Device, President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU) (4th Place)
Fly (Dipteria) Trap, Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) (5th Place)
For the Student Category, winners of the pitching are the following:
Solar-powered Intelligent Automated Drip Irrigation System for Small-scale Onion Crop Production, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) (3rd Place)
Cob Delights, CLSU (4th Place)
QUACKSTIL, Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Pulilan Campus (PUP-Pulilan) (5th Place)
Winners of the poster-making contest for the Researcher Category are the following:
Chevon-based Food Products, CLSU (1st Place)
Z3: Zest, Zen, Zing, Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) (2nd Place)
Grain Probe Moisture Meter, PHilMech (3rd Place)
Lastly, the winners of the poster-making contest for the Student Category are the following:
NAIAD, BPSU (1st Place)
Cocoguard Biopesticide, PSAU (2nd Place)
Solar-powered Intelligent Automated Drip Irrigation System for Small-scale Onion Crop Production, TAU (3rd Place)
Through the technology pitching activity, researcher- and student-innovators showcased their products and technologies with high commercialization potential for the advancement of the AANR sector in the Philippines. Moreover, the PSAU-SIBUL TBI Board of Advisors’ Pledge of Commitment is a testament to the continuous collaboration of various public and private sectors in fostering a stronger AANR landscape in the country.
The Philippine Science High School-Ilocos Region Campus (PSHS-IRC) inaugurated its Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO) last March 24, 2025, in San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur.
The TTLO will provide support in technology and intellectual property for technology generators and innovators in the Ilocos Region. This initiative is part of the project, “Developing Technology Transfer Capacity of the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS),” funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquaculture and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
PSHS-IRC Campus Director Mary Grace R. Navarro expressed that the TTLO will serve as a hub that will protect and commercialize technologies through intellectual property (IP) protection and management. According to her, she hopes that the project will foster partnerships and strengthen collaboration with industries.
The Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO) Inauguration at the Philippine Science High School-Ilocos Region Campus (PSHS-IRC) on March 24, 2025 at San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Likewise, Ms. Lucy A. Lastimosa, Assistant Director of DOST-PCAARRD’s Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD), commended PSHS’s dedication to cultivating future scientists and innovative solutions for society. She emphasized that the TTLO shall provide a structured approach to the development, protection, and commercialization of intellectual properties generated by PSHS students and researchers.
Through the establishment of TTLO, more technologies can be protected and commercialized. Moreover, the facility will provide a platform for more people in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector to cultivate their innovations.
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), through its Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD), held a training workshop on effective communication of project results and financial analysis in Cebu City, from March 18 to 21, 2025.
Mr. Rino Dominic Cabungcal delivers a message on behalf of DOST-VII Regional Director Engr. Jesus F. Zamora, Jr., emphasizing challenges in tech transfer and project sustainability. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The training was organized as part of the Council’s initiative to effectively communicate the impacts of research and development initiatives of its network. The event gathered 62 extension and deployment practitioners from 23 partner institutions nationwide. It equipped stakeholders to interpret findings, align them with project goals, and apply insights to future decisions.
Additionally, assessing the financial viability and on-farm performance of S&T-derived interventions is essential. Various financial analysis tools can be applied depending on the type of intervention, improvement, or technology introduced in agricultural settings. These tools provide valuable insights into the sustainability and economic feasibility of technology transfer initiatives.
Overall, this training enhances the capacity of partner agencies to effectively prepare and present project results, integrating both impact assessment and financial analysis to ensure the long-term success of various technology transfer projects.
Engr. Jesus F. Zamora, Jr., Regional Director of DOST Regional Office No. VII, welcomed the participants through his representative, Mr. Rino Dominic Cabungcal. He highlighted that a major challenge in technology transfer in Central Visayas is bridging the gap between effective extension project management and long-term sustainability. While promising technologies and research outputs are emerging, there is still a need to improve how financial performance is evaluated and how key results are communicated.
DOST-PCAARRD, TTPD Director Noel A. Catibog underscores the importance of cost-effectiveness, impact, and sustainability in project implementation through proper financial analysis. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
In his message, TTPD Director Noel A. Catibog highlighted that successful project implementation goes beyond execution—it must be cost-effective, impactful, and sustainable. Proper financial analysis ensures that every peso allocated to a project delivers real benefits to farmers and other beneficiaries. A thorough assessment of costs, revenues, and overall impact is essential for maintaining the stability and sustainability of extension projects.
Dir. Catibog also underscored that no matter how well a project is implemented, its success hinges on the ability to effectively communicate its results. Without clear and compelling communication, researchers and project leaders may struggle to gain the trust and support of stakeholders. Effective result communication is not just about reporting data - it is about telling a powerful story that showcases the real impact of these initiatives on the lives of beneficiaries.
[Left] Dr. Lily Ann Lando shares expert insights on effectively communicating project results. [Right] Dr. Marilyn M. Elauria and Dr. Jessie C. Elauria lead sessions on financial analysis and impact assessment. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Dr. Lily Ann Lando, an S&T Consultant, guided the participants by sharing her expertise on communicating project results. She covered key topics such as the importance of results communication, essential components of an effective results report, structuring reports, presenting both qualitative and quantitative data, evidencing data and impact effectively, and crafting clear and compelling reports.
Dr. Marilyn M. Elauria and Dr. Jessie C. Elauria provided participants with in-depth insights into financial analysis concepts and their key elements for enterprise development and sustainability planning. They introduced various financial analysis tools and their applications, including Partial Budget Analysis, Cost and Return Analysis, and Enterprise Budget Analysis. The training also covered essential financial measures of project worth, such as the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Payback Period (PP). Additionally, participants were introduced to impact assessment concepts and frameworks, further enhancing their ability to evaluate and sustain project outcomes.
Dr. Juanito T. Batalon urges participants to apply their learnings and prioritize sustainability to ensure long-term impact and scalability of extension initiatives. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
In his closing remarks, Dr. Juanito T. Batalon, PCAARRD’s Deputy Executive Director for R&D, encouraged participants to apply the tools and insights gained from the training upon returning to their respective institutions. He stressed that making project sustainability a core pillar of every extension initiative is essential to keeping efforts impactful, scalable, and economically sound.
He reminded everyone that producing good results is just the first step. Data, findings, and project outcomes must be transformed into clear, compelling, and actionable messages to maximize their true impact. Whether engaging policymakers, funding agencies, or farmer cooperators, the ability to present a story with clarity and purpose is what drives understanding, adoption, and long-term success.
