SLSU, DOST NRCP hosts RDLead Online Promotion and Orientation for Visayas

May 8, 2025-- The Department of Science and Technology – National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP), in collaboration with Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), successfully held the LIYAB: Lighting the Path to an Inclusive Research Ecosystem (An RDLead Online Promotion and Orientation) for the Visayas region via Zoom.

The virtual event featured key presentations aimed at promoting the RDLead program and fostering stronger research partnerships in the region. The program was welcomed by Dr. Bernardo N. Sepeda, DOST-NRCP Executive Director.

Highlighting the event was the “RDLead Engagement Journey,” featuring Dr. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno III, RD Leader, and Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Services at SLSU. Their discussion focused on the transformative impact of RDLead collaborations in strengthening institutional research capabilities, particularly how the program has significantly contributed to the advancement of SLSU’s research initiatives.

Mr. Marfy H. Lita, Project Senior Technical Specialist, provided an orientation on RDLead, and a video documentary further illustrated the program's mission and success stories. An open forum moderated by Mr. Lita allowed participants to interact and raise inquiries, which was followed by a closing message from Ms. Beverly Mae N. Dela Cruz, Chief Science Research Specialist.

The orientation aimed to encourage more institutions to join the RDLead program, which supports the development of a dynamic and inclusive research ecosystem across the country. It also reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 4: Quality Education – by fostering research-based learning and academic excellence, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by building research capacities and promoting innovation, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – by strengthening collaboration between institutions and expert researchers nationwide.