The University Research, Development, and Innovation (URDI) recently celebrated Research, Innovation, Publication, and Extension (RIPE) Day at JDA Hall, South La Union Campus, Agoo, La Union. This was anchored in the theme Envisioning a Future for All through Global Sustainable Development.

A total of 366- strong RIPE personnel, select students, and stakeholders from the six operating units, namely North La Union Campus, Mid La Union Campus, South La Union Campus, Open University System, Sericulture Research and Development Institute, and National Apiculture Research Training and Development Institute, plus units under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation (OVPRDI) participated in the four-in-one event.

The program commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Raquel D. Quiambao, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the South La Union Campus (SLUC). Representing the Campus Chancellor, Dr. Joanne C. Rivera, Dr. Quiambao extended greetings to the delegates.

In the statement of rationale, Dir. Emerita D. Galiste emphasized the value of close collaboration between and among R&D, Innovation, Production, and Extension in the University’s goal of a sustainable global future for everyone.

In a like manner, VP for Research, Development, and Innovation, Dr. Angelina T. Gonzales, expressed her gratitude to all the attendees as their presence signifies their support of the event’s objective to foster collaboration and dialogue on sustainable solutions that can drive positive change across the globe.

This was subsequently followed by a MOA Signing Ceremony of DMMMSU and Agri-based Technology Business Incubator (ATBI) and the official launch of the DMMMSU IP Portfolio and DMMMSU Technology Portfolio, which aims to ensure the widespread accessibility of DMMMSU’s technologies across all its stakeholders. 

Each unit under the OVPRDI simultaneously facilitated events and competitions engaging local stakeholders, student researchers, and RIPE personnel. Research Director Prof. Keneth Bayani presented the research, development, and innovation agenda of the University.

Meanwhile, Innovation, Technology, and Commercialization Director Prof. Victoria N. Malaya facilitated the first techno-video competition and the second technology pitching competition. Publication and IEC Materials Development Director Dr. Jomar L. Aban led the first competitions on transforming technical reports into publishable articles, IEC materials, and digital posters.

On the other hand, Extension Director Prof. Emerita D. Galiste facilitated the managerial and manipulative skills competitions such as bangus deboning, chicken dressing, and oyster shucking. She also spearheaded the stakeholders’ day, where technology-generated products were given away.

During the competitions, the participants captivated the audience with their ingenuity and creativity. These competitions not only highlighted the depth of research talent but also underscored the importance of effective communication in the dissemination of knowledge through publication, informative materials, and visual communication.

The culmination of the event was marked by the awarding ceremony. In his closing remarks, Dr. Bayani expressed gratitude to all participants, highlighting their contributions to the success of the event. (By Ma. Elaine P. Boguen and Ronald B. Bustos)