2025 Regional Research Conference Successfully Conducted at DMMMSU, La Union
The 2025 Regional Research Conference took place on June 20, 2025, at the International Convention Center, DMMMSU - NLUC, Sapilang, Bacnotan, La Union, organized by Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU). The gathering united researchers, health experts, academic figures, and policy supporters to honor and advance regional excellence in health research.
The event officially began at 8:00 AM with participant registration, which was followed by the ceremonial ribbon-cutting for the Poster Research Exhibit. Key officials from DOST-PCHRD, DOST-1, CHD-1, DMMMSU, R1HRDC, and other distinguished attendees spearheaded this ceremony. The opening program featured an invocation and the Philippine National Anthem, which was beautifully sung by the DMMMSU Northern Chorus.
Dr. Leo B. Solis, Chair of R1HRDC, gave an inspiring and friendly welcome speech, establishing the atmosphere for a day packed with education, teamwork, and the celebration of research. Inspirational messages were delivered by Dr. Jaime I. Manuel Jr., President of DMMMSU, represented by Dr. Angelina T. Gonzales, Vice President for University Research, Development, and Innovation, alongside Dr. Maria Lourdes K. Otayza, Consortium Director of R1HRDC. Both emphasized the vital importance of joint research in promoting public health and regional progress.
To enhance the festive ambiance, the DMMMSU Northern Chorus delivered an energetic intermission performance before the introduction of the keynote speaker by Dr. Cynthia P. Lopez, Chairperson of the Regional Utilization Committee (RUC).
In a stimulating keynote speech, Dr. Paula Paz M. Sydiongco, Director IV of the Department of Health - Center for Health Development 1 (CHD-1), represented by Dr. Rhuel Bobis, Head of the Disease Prevention and Control Section, highlighted the necessity of converting research into practical policies and community-focused interventions, particularly amid urgent public health issues.
In acknowledgment of their significant contributions, certificates of appreciation and tokens of recognition were awarded to the keynote speaker and the host university, DMMMMDU.
The morning session continued with three insightful lectures, which further enriched the participants' understanding of the current health research landscape in the region.
The morning session also featured three insightful lectures:
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Lecture 1: Dr. Teresita Tabaog, Regional Director of DOST Region 1, spoke on Transforming Research into Action: Strategic Pathways to Successful Technology Transfer
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Lecture 2: Prof. Ryan Dean T. Sucgang, Chairperson of REMB-1 Committee on Information Dissemination, Training, and Advocacy, discussed Ethical Research for Viable Healthcare
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Lecture 3: Dr. Joy C. Alvarez, Project Leader, shared/disseminated the results of her funded research paper entitled "Implementation of Hearing Screening Protocol for School-Aged Children enrolled in Special Education in Selected Public Schools in Ilocos Norte
Following a midday health break and lunch, the afternoon session commenced with the oral and poster presentation competitions, where researchers showcased their studies before a technical panel of evaluators. The presentations highlighted innovative solutions and data-driven approaches to pressing health and community issues, reflecting the region’s dynamic research landscape.
The Awarding Ceremony honored outstanding research presentations and recognized the efforts of all participants.
The following are the winners for the Oral and Poster Research Competitions:
Oral Research Competition (Professional Category)
