Quezon City University Inks MOU with UPLB to Strengthen Research Collaboration under DOST RDLead Program

LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA – Quezon City University (QCU) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the implementation of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Research and Development Leadership (RDLead) Program on 16 February 2026 at UPLB.

The RDLead Program, implemented by the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), aims to strengthen research capabilities of universities, research and development institutions, and government agencies nationwide. Under the program, designated experts known as RDLeaders provide mentorship, technical guidance, and support to participating institutions.

In photo: Quezon City University (QCU) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) sign a Memorandum of Understanding for the DOST RDLead Program at UPLB on 16 February 2026.

QCU President Dr. Theresita V. Atienza and UPLB Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Atty. Eric Paul D. Peralta led the ceremonial signing. The activity was facilitated by QCU RDLeader Dr. Fernando C. Sanchez, Jr. University officials, faculty members, and representatives from both institutions attended the event, together with NRCP RDLead Secretariat representatives Mr. Marfy H. Lita and Mr. Byron Lei B. Diaz.

President Atienza reaffirmed QCU’s commitment to deepening joint efforts in research, extension, capacity-building, and institutional development under the partnership.

The partnership provides a framework for collaboration in research mentoring, joint research and extension projects, lectures, symposia, and other capacity-building activities. 

Following the signing ceremony, QCU delegates and members of the RDLead Secretariat participated in “CAFS VIAJE,” an academic exposure and training activity organized by UPLB’s College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS). The activity included visits to research facilities: the Ornamental Crop Nursery, ICropS Smart Greenhouse, National Plant Genetic Resources Laboratory (NPGRL), Organic Agriculture Research, Development and Extension Center (OARDEC), and Dairy Training and Research Institute (DTRI) Farm Hub. (Byron Lei B. Diaz, S&T Media Service)

In photo: QCU delegates and RDLead Secretariat members visit the National Plant Genetic Resources Laboratory (NPGRL) during CAFS VIAJE at UPLB on 16 February 2026.
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