Bringing together scholars, innovators, and development practitioners, the 2nd Guimaras Research Conference marked another milestone in promoting a strong culture of research and innovation for sustainable development in the province.
Held on October 16, 2025, at the Agri-Eco Convention Hall of Guimaras State University (GSU), the event carried the theme “Accelerating the SDG Pace of Progress: Mobilizing Data for All.” It served as one of the major highlights of the 2nd Guimaras Data Festival, organized in celebration of the National Statistics Month (NSM).
The conference was spearheaded by Guimaras State University, through its Research and Development Office under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, Training, and Innovation (OVPRETI), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Guimaras and other research institutions. The initiative provided a platform for the dissemination of research findings, exchange of innovative ideas, and strengthening of research collaboration across sectors.
A total of ten research papers were presented, featuring studies on agriculture, environmental management, and tourism—key areas vital to the province’s progress. Participating institutions included Guimaras State University, Bureau of Plant Industry–Guimaras National Crop Research and Development Center (BPI-GNCRDC), and West Visayas State University (WVSU).
Topping this year’s competition were Dr. Rhea Joy D. Flora and Mr. Joebel B. Talaban, who won 1st Place for their study titled “Soil Fertility Assessment of Guimaras’ Mango Plantations.” The 2nd Place went to Ms. Lyden C. Baldelovar, Mr. Fritz S. Lequisia, Mr. Romeo V. Mortales, Jr., Ms. Cheyenne Miles M. Perez, and Ms. Genevieve P. Lachica for their research “Spatial Distribution and Autocorrelation of Rhizophora Mangrove Species in Taklong Island National Marine Reserve.” Meanwhile, Mr. Rhod S. Orquia, Mr. Yondre J. Yonder, Ms. Erlyn N. Billones, Ms. Lilia P. Habaña, Ms. Juvy G. Narte, Mr. Alex A. Tuyo, and Mr. Samuel P. Pielago secured 3rd Place for their study titled “Rehabilitation of Unproductive Grafted ‘Carabao’ Mango Trees through Adoption of Integrated Crop Management (ICM).”
In her message, Vice Governor Cecile Gumarin underscored the importance of data-driven research in guiding public decisions and local governance.
“Subong ara kita sa National Statistics Month kag ang tanan-tanan nga data nga ma-gather naton are equally important man in decision-making sa aton panggobyerno. Indi lang simple nga data ang gina-collect naton through your research, kundi correct kag relevant man sa aton probinsya,” she said.
A notable highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by the Research Utilization Sub-Committee, formalizing the commitment to apply research outputs in crafting evidence-based policies and development strategies.
Adding a creative dimension to the celebration, a poster-making exhibit showcased how visual communication can enhance appreciation for data and research.
Through this conference, GSU continues to reinforce its role as a catalyst for innovation and a strong advocate of evidence-based development. The event not only celebrated academic excellence but also strengthened the link between research and governance—ensuring that local initiatives are guided by reliable data and scientific insight for the continued progress of Guimaras.
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POST ID: SOC-251017-0293
