The Western Visayas science and technology (S&T) community convened at the Iloilo Convention Center in Iloilo City for the Idlab Awarding Ceremony hosted by the Regional Research, Development and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) of the Regional Development Council (RDC).

The awarding ceremony was attended by 160 guests from the different regional research and development (R&D) consortia, state universities and colleges (SUCs), government agencies, private institutions, and media.

Twelve scientists who are pioneers in their respective fields, were given due recognition for their contributions in addressing sectoral problems during the ceremony. The Outstanding Researcher Award were given to: 1) Dr. Doralyn S. Dalisay for the Basic Research Category; 2) Dr. Patricio P. Palmes for the Health Research Category; 3) Dr. Christopher Marlowe A. Caipang for the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Category; and 4) Engr. Sammy V. Militante for the Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Category.

Winning the second and third places, respectively, for each category were: 1) Dr. Fernan P. Tupas and Dr. Judith S. Rabacal for the Basic Research Category; 2) Dr. Sheilla M. Trajera and Dr. Marie Grace Dawn T. Isidro for the Health Research Category; 3) Dr. Renerio S. Mucas and Dr. Julius T. Vergara for the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Category, and 4) Dr. Joel T. De Castro and Prof. Julie Ann A. Salido for the Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Category.

The Iloilo Business Club special award for the researchers with Most Market-worthy and Technology-driven Product was conferred to Prof. Julie Ann A. Salido.

Moreover, three National Scientists were conferred the Eminent Scientist Award as a humble token of gratitude for their signicant contribution in the field of S&T, and for bringing honor and being exemplars to local researchers in WV. The award was presented to Dr. Raul V. Fabella, Dr. Gavino C. Trono, Jr., and Dr. Angel C. Alcala.

Emphasizing the important role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in pursuing a more viable and development-oriented S&T community in the region, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) VI Regional Director and RRDIC Chairperson Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga stated in his opening message his hope that WV will pursue significant investments in R&D to support to scientists and researchers.

In line with this, the closing message of Engr. Arecio A. Casing, Officer-in-Charge of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) VI, delivered by Ms. Yvette G. Batacandolo, stated that the conduct of Idlab demonstrates the region’s strong desire to put R&D at the forefront of development.

“This recognition is our simple way of re-affirming the extraordinary work you (researchers) have done in your respective fields. Idlab Awards is meant to inspire everyone to venture in different fields of research that will pave the way to the development of new technologies and realization of innovative ideas.”, Engr. Casing adds. (DOST VI-KMU)