DOST-NRCP RDLead Connects Over 360 Researchers with Regional Priorities

Published October 23, 2026 under Features, General Posts, News and Updates. By nrcp_admin1. 152 views.

More than 360 researchers and institutional representatives across the Philippines have participated in a four-day orientation series aimed at aligning institutional research programs and initiatives with regional priorities.

Organized by the Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) RDLead FIRE Program, the "FIRE Connect 2026: Connecting Institutions, Priorities, and Opportunities" virtual initiative successfully mapped out localized research needs for academic and partner institutions from September 21 to 24, 2026.

The initiative brought together participants from four major geographic clusters: Mindanao, Visayas, South Luzon and NCR, and North Luzon and Central Luzon. By linking these institutions directly with the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOST-BARMM) and various DOST regional offices, the orientation helped grassroots scientists understand specific regional challenges and funding opportunities.

NRCP Executive Director Dr. Brian S. Bantugan opened the sessions by encouraging participants to strengthen research capabilities for an inclusive and progressive nation.

"[The activity aims] to empower our researchers to generate responsive, impact-driven initiatives that not only answer regional challenges, but also secure competitive funding and drive evidence-based development," said Dr. Bantugan.

Throughout the sessions, Regional Directors and officials presented their respective research agendas, opening doors for potential collaborations and addressing how institutional initiatives can directly respond to specific regional needs.

FIRE Connect 2026 is part of the broader the RDLead Program's continuing efforts designed to strengthen institutional R&D capacities of partner institutions by helping them develop strategic, needs-responsive, and potentially fundable research initiatives. (Vince Estella Balahan, S&T Media Service)