SPAMAST reaffirmed its commitment to research-driven development as its representatives actively participated in the Davao Occidental Research for Development Agenda (DORDA) Updating held on December 2, 2025, at the Lecture Hall of the SPAMAST Main Campus in Malita. The institution was represented by Dr. Edelyn S. Albiso, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, and Dr. Grace D. Buencillo, Director for Research, who joined provincial stakeholders in reviewing and refining the research directions of Davao Occidental. The event, organized by the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO), opened with a message from Provincial Science and Technology Director Ms. Maria Victoria I. Dado, emphasizing the value of academic–government collaboration in shaping evidence-based development priorities.
Throughout the morning session, SPAMAST delegates engaged with key presentations that outlined national, regional, and provincial research frameworks. These included insights on PAGTANAW 2025 by Dr. Nathan Ray A. Alim, updates on the HNRDA 2022–2028 by Ms. Christine Esther Flor L. Catoera, and the DRDRA 2022–2028 presented by Engr. Eric John B. Miones. A review of the DORDA 2020–2025 by Ms. Just D. Magallanes, along with the province’s Strategic Plan and Roadmap, strengthened discussions on aligning research initiatives with local needs. In the afternoon workshop, SPAMAST contributed to collaborative assessments and planning activities, offering academic insights that supported the refinement of priority research areas for the province.
The program concluded with a synthesis session, awarding of certificates, and a closing message from Ms. Jocelyn R. Batucan, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator. SPAMAST’s active involvement in the DORDA Updating underscored its role as a key academic partner in advancing research-based governance and sustainable development in Davao Occidental. This engagement directly supports several of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), reflecting the institution’s continuing commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening institutional collaboration, and contributing to inclusive provincial development.
