The Guimaras State University – Research, Extension, Training, and Innovation Office launched Phase 3 of its capacity-building program on university research, with a specific focus on futures thinking and foresight. This phase spanned three days, from April 3-5, 2024, featuring face-to-face scenario and strategic development sessions facilitated by Aptissimi Development Innovations Inc. (ADII). The event commenced with a message by Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño, the University President, followed by insightful remarks from Dr. Ruperto S. Sangalang, Former CHED Commissioner, and Senior Fellow Futurist of the Philippines Futures Thinking Society.

The workshop aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of strategy development intricacies and its pivotal role in fostering and sustaining competitive advantage. Utilizing a blend of lectures, case studies, and facilitated workshops, the program aimed to explore alternative approaches to cultivating advantage, with a specific emphasis on research innovations within the domains of Mango, Kasoy, Kalamansi, Saba, Modified Asin, and Kamote—considered as the primary agricultural products of the Province of Guimaras.

The entire GSU community extends its gratitude to everyone involved in this initiative, particularly to Senator Pia Cayetano, the chair of the Futures Thinking initiative, for emphasizing the importance of strategic foresight in crafting policies to help the education sector prepare for all potential scenarios in the new normal and beyond. Appreciation is also expressed to the coaches and mentors for their patience and for sharing valuable insights to enhance our research ideas.