DOST-NRCP RDLead Trains UP Tacloban Researchers in Grant Writing, Publishing
TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte — Twenty-seven faculty members and researchers from the University of the Philippines Tacloban completed a four-day intensive training on grant writing and scientific publishing under the RDLead FIRE (Enhanced Research and Development Leadership to Foster an Inclusive Research Ecosystem) implemented by the Department of Science and Technology – National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP).
The training, aimed at strengthening research output, funding success, and institutional visibility, was conducted from March 24 to 27 2026 at the UP Tacloban Library Multipurpose Hall.
Designed to sharpen critical skills that directly influence scientific publication and competitive research grant acquisition, the program emphasized practical outputs over theory. RDLeader Dr. Jomar F. Rabajante spearheaded the sessions, guiding participants through capsule proposal drafting and intensive pitching exercises that subjected their work to rigorous peer and expert critiques.
NRCP, one of the Councils under DOST, is mandated to promote and support fundamental or basic research for the continuing improvement of the research capability of individual or group scientists. Through targeted initiatives like RDLead FIRE, NRCP continues to advance its mission of democratizing research competence and opportunities nationwide.
Led by RD Leader Dr. Mitch-Irene Kate G. Oyales, the three-day workshop brought together RSU faculty members and researchers to strengthen institutional research capabilities through project management, policy development, and bioplastics innovation, while addressing challenges in marble waste management in Romblon Province. Mr. Rogel Jan B. Butalid, Dr. Eligia D. Clemente, and Mr. Mark Jeffry De Leon of the University of the Philippines Diliman Department of Mining, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (DMMME) also helped enrich the workshop sessions.
The workshop featured lectures and hands-on activities on project management, collaborative discussions on policy recommendations for sustainable marble waste management, and laboratory exercises demonstrating the potential use of marble by-products in bioplastics production. Representatives from government agencies, local stakeholders, and the academe also participated in the focus group discussion, reinforcing a multi-sectoral approach to developing research-informed solutions for the local marble industry.
