DOST-Ilocos expands research network with two new member institutions

The Department of Science and Technology in the Ilocos Region (DOST-1) has expanded its research and development network with the addition of LORMA Colleges and WCC Aeronautical and Technological College (WCC ATC) to the Ilocos Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (ICIEERD).

The two institutions formally joined the consortium through the signing of memoranda of agreement and an induction ceremony on October 14 during the opening day of the 4th Joint Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Symposium.

The symposium, themed “Converging Research, Development, and Innovation for a Resilient and Sustainable Ilocos Region,” brought together researchers, academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies to promote collaboration and develop solutions to regional challenges.

The event was organized through a collaboration among the Sustainability, Innovation, Leadership, Linkages, Access and Growth in Region 1 (SILLAG Region 1) Startup Consortium, ICIEERD, the Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (ILAARRDEC), and the Region 1 Health Research and Development Consortium (R1HRDC).

The addition of LORMA Colleges and WCC ATC is expected to strengthen ICIEERD's capacity to implement research and development programs, share technical expertise and resources, and promote the adoption of technologies that can improve industry competitiveness in the region.

DOST-1 Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog, who also serves as ICIEERD co-chairperson, led the signing of the agreements alongside consortium director and DOST-1 Assistant Regional Director for Field Operations Decth-1180 P. Libunao.

Representing LORMA Colleges were its president, Edwin C. Cancino, and College of Business dean Neil Vincent D. Palteng, along with other academic representatives.

WCC ATC was represented by its president and chief executive officer, Raymond Patrick V. Guico, along with other officials from DOST-1 and the consortium.

The three-day symposium also serves as a platform for presenting research findings, showcasing emerging technologies, conducting technology pitch competitions, and establishing partnerships among institutions and industry stakeholders.

Through the expanded network, DOST-1 aims to strengthen collaboration between academic institutions, government agencies, and industry partners to translate scientific research into practical technologies, viable enterprises, and sustainable solutions for communities across the Ilocos Region.