With a vision to be a leading Research University in the ASEAN Region, the Isabela State University (ISU) formally opens its Research Congress with the theme, “ReDI Pitch GO!: Research for Development and Innovation, Pitching for Grant Opportunity” on March 6, 2024 at the Ramon Magsaysay Building of the ISU Cauayan Campus.

As an effort led by the Research and Development Office of the University, the said congress aims to discuss R&D in the local and international context, inviting partners to navigate opportunities, and align future endeavors to the University’s research agenda along with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

In his opening message, Dr. Orlando F. Balderama (Vice President for Research and Development, Extension and Training), presented the congress’ end goal of intensifying the University’s resource generation efforts through research and development. He further added to the hope of besting the University’s record of gaining 150 million pesos in revenue last 2021.

In support to the University being a forefront of academic research in the region for the benefit of communities, Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino (President), in his inspirational message, emphasized that the top management of ISU greatly values engagement of research as a means to provide unique opportunities to contribute to the intellectual growth of the University, sharing its culture of academic engagement.

“By participating in research, we become active contributors to the advancement of knowledge, make lasting impact to the academic community and reality. As a research University, our aim is not just to contribute to the body of knowledge, not just knowledge creators, but to create an impact in our society,” Dr. Aquino said.

Afterwards, Dr. Lorelei C. Tabago (R&D Director, ISU Cauayan) introduced the guest speakers and participants of the congress for recognition and acknowledgement of their time and services for the University.