Palo, Leyte — August 1, 2025 | In pursuit of strengthening regional innovation ecosystems and aligning strategic priorities for the Eastern Visayas Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023–2028 Midterm Update, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Region VIII successfully hosted the Planning Committee (PC) Workshop on Advance Research and Development (R&D), Innovation, and Technology on August 1, 2025, at Felipina Hall, DEPDev VIII Building, Palo, Leyte.
Representing Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) was Dr. Joseph Emil A. David, Director for Research and Development Services. Dr. David’s participation highlighted NWSSU’s steadfast commitment to regional collaboration and its proactive engagement in shaping the future of research and innovation in the region.
The workshop commenced with the welcome remarks of Atty. Jam M. Colas-Villaber, Assistant Regional Director of DEPDev VIII, delivered an opening message, followed by a keynote address from Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, Regional Director of DOST VIII, who emphasized the pivotal role of research, innovation, and technology in propelling inclusive and sustainable development across Eastern Visayas.
This was followed by an expectations-setting session led by Senior Economic Development Specialist Gladys S. Sobrio, which framed the strategic objectives of the workshop and emphasized the importance of collaborative planning. A critical segment of the program was the presentation of the “Checkpoint 2023–2025 Midterm Assessment” by Chief Economic Development Specialist Geselle Frances P. Zeta, offering a comprehensive review of regional progress, challenges, and opportunities in the R&D and innovation sectors.
Plenary sessions featured expert insights from Ms. Rosianette B. Cadayong-Caalim, Mr. Ceasar Peter D. Aves, and Ms. Niña Valerie D. Paragele, who discussed emerging technologies, policy integration, and strategic frameworks essential for regional advancement. Interactive segments fostered dynamic exchanges among participants, encouraging the co-creation of actionable strategies. The event concluded with a synthesis by Ms. Mary Joyce C. Estudillo, reinforcing the collective commitment to innovation as a cornerstone of regional development.
Through its active involvement, NWSSU strengthened its dedication to research excellence, institutional resilience, and its role as a vital contributor to the innovation landscape of Eastern Visayas.