Faculty and staff from Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSU at Naawan) participated in the 2026 DOST Call Conference for the Mindanao Cluster held on February 24, 2026, at Almont Inland Resort in Butuan City. The event was organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to present priority research directions and funding opportunities for institutions across Mindanao.
The conference served as a strategic platform for researchers, innovators, and institutional representatives to align regional research and development (R&D) initiatives with national science and technology priorities. It also provided guidance on proposal preparation, funding mechanisms, and collaborative opportunities aimed at addressing pressing technological and societal challenges.
During the event, Renato U. Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strategically supporting priority R&D programs that generate science-driven solutions for regional and national development. He emphasized that innovation, research collaboration, and the active participation of Filipino scientists and engineers are essential to building a stronger and more resilient nation.
The conference also highlighted the Mindanao Cluster’s key R&D priorities, including initiatives in health, agriculture, energy, and emerging technologies. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, underscored the importance of strengthening regional research ecosystems and advancing innovations that directly respond to local development needs.
Through their participation, MSU at Naawan faculty and staff gained valuable insights into DOST’s research agenda, funding programs, and proposal guidelines. The engagement further strengthened the university’s commitment to advancing research excellence and contributing science-based solutions that support sustainable development in Mindanao and across the Philippines.
Participants may also access the conference materials and proposal resources from the different DOST councils through the following link: https://tinyurl.com/MindanaoCallConMaterials
Participation in events such as the DOST Mindanao Cluster Call Conference continues to expand MSU at Naawan’s role in national research collaboration, fostering partnerships that promote innovation, knowledge exchange, and impactful research for communities.
