The Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) recently conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the RAISE WesMin Program.

  With 6 Patents, 12 Utility Models, 10 trademarks, and 20 copyrights filed, 65 jobs created by the assisted 17 incubatees, and 12 technology-based pre-commercialization reports covering various business plans, feasibility studies, and business model canvas, generated by the 5 collaborating agencies, the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement in Western Mindanao (RAISE WesMin) Program proved to be a valuable avenue in supporting the boost of intellectual property generation and protection, technology promotion, transfer and extension in just 6 months of implementation from October 2023-March 2024.

  The Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) activity, held from May 13 to 17, 2024, assessed the progress and accomplishments of the program, particularly the Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management (IPTBM) project, across various institutions, including the regional projects being implemented by Western Mindanao State University (WMSU).

  A team from DOST-PCAARRD’s Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD), led by Ms. Mae A. Dagaas, Ms. Mary Ramselle A. Pasang, and Mr. Marko A. Pasang, visited the project implementing institutions comprising of Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) in Zamboanga del Norte, JH Cerilles State College (JHCSC) in Zamboanga del Sur, Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI) in Zamboanga Sibugay, and Zamboanga State College of Science and Technology (ZSCMST) and WMSU in Zamboanga City. The M&E activity included presentations by Project Leaders from each CMI, showcasing their accomplishments in implementing the various projects. Asst. Prof. Rickler R. Detalla led Project 1A, which focused on the establishment of IPTBM in J.H. Cerilles State College. Asso. Prof. Yhebron J. Lagud spearheaded Project 1B, aimed at establishing IPTBM in Jose Rizal Memorial State University. Engr. Evangeline P. Garcia directed Project 1C, which involved the establishment of IPTBM in the Philippine Rubber Research Institute. Finally, Dr. Maila V. Pan in charge of Project 1D, dedicated to establishing IPTBM in Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology.

  On May 16, 2024, the monitoring team of PCAARRD and RAISE WesMin team proceeded to the WMSU Campus for presentations on the accomplishment of various projects such as the Regional and Institutional Intellectual Property Technology Business Management (IPTBM), Regional Agri-Business Hub (ABH), Regional and Institutional Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI), and the Regional Knowledge Management Hub (KMH). WMSU hosted the last day of the activity at the WMSU-RDEC Conference Room, Zamboanga City.

  Engr. Arvic S. Francisco and Dr. Dulce-Amor P. Matondo led Project 1, focusing on Regional IPTBM, with Atty. Maria Luisa Pilar C. Elago as the Institutional Project Staff. Project 2, which aimed at establishing the Regional ABH, was led by Asso. Prof. Gladess A. Pagal and Dr. Norqueen T. Dumadaug. Dr. Reynante E. Autida and Asso. Prof. Soledad P. Salazar led Project 3, the Regional ATBI, with Engr. Swidin S. Husin as the Institutional Project Staff. Project 4, focused on establishing the Regional KMH, was led by Mr. Rey Ralph H. Virtucio.

  The presentations were followed by a consolidated program report presented by Dr. Reynante E. Autida and Ms. Daphne-Vi Capili, RAISE Technical Specialist, and the provision of comments, suggestions, and recommendations by the PCAARRD panel.

  The evaluators commended the team for their thorough and detailed report and laid out a clear plan for the upcoming months. The team will actively participate in the content buildup of the IPTBM-RTMS/Info System using their login credentials, with close coordination from the KM Team to ensure substantial inputs. Additionally, the focus will be on prioritizing technologies in the commercialization pipeline. To further strengthen the program, the team will organize regional IP policy and Technology Transfer Protocol workshops. These strategic actions are expected to enhance the program’s impact, ensuring the effective dissemination and commercialization of vital technologies in the months ahead.

  The activity was further enriched by the presence of several notable school officials. Dr. Joel G. Fernando, Vice President for Research, Extension Services, and External Linkages (RESEL) of WMSU, delivered an inspirational message to kick off the day. Dr. Rufa L. Mendez, Vice President for Research Innovation and Extension (RIE) of ZSCMST, also joined the activity as the Project Staff of ZSCMST-IPTBM.

  “The Mid-Year Review served as a valuable platform to assess the progress and accomplishments of the RAISE Program, particularly the IPTBM project,” said Dr. Reynante E. Autida, RAISE-WesMin Program Leader. The dedication of the teams from DOST-PCAARRD, and other institutions is commendable, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing the program’s objectives. Their collaborative efforts have been instrumental in driving innovation and intellectual property management across Western Mindanao. The seamless cooperation between these teams and the unwavering support from school officials, led by University President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, along with the heads of various SUCs and RDIs, has significantly contributed to the success and impact of the RAISE WesMin initiative.

  Finally, Dr. Leonilo B. Abella, Director of the Western Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESMAARRDEC), provided the closing remarks, wrapping up the successful M&E activity and reinforcing the importance of continued collaboration and dedication to the program’s goals. He commended the collective efforts of all involved, acknowledging their pivotal role in the program’s achievements. Dr. Abella also encouraged the teams to maintain their momentum and to keep striving for excellence in all future endeavors.