On September 21, 2023, the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) marked its achievement in Research and Development (R&D) by hosting the annual Agency In-House Review (AIHR). The WMSU AIHR is conducted every year by the Research Development and Evaluation Center (RDEC) of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (RESEL) to disseminate R&D projects that have been funded by either WMSU or external funders. This is an avenue to recognize the excellence of researchers and personnel in implementing R&D projects for the advancement of science and its relevance to the community.

Out of all the presenters of research outputs at the prestigious event, Engr. Arvic S. Francisco emerged victorious, winning the Best Paper Development Category Award for AFNR / S&T. The award stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire project team whose collective effort made it possible, composed of Dr. Reynante E. Autida (Project Leader), Engr. Swidin S. Husin (Project Staff), Engr. Arvic S. Francisco (Project Staff), Mr. Given Love S. Senturias (Project Development Officer), Ms. Ria C. Mapula (Research Assistant), Mr. Ahmed Sharief Fayedh A. Antao (Information Officer), and Ms. Abiegail L. Villamor (TBIU Staff). Despite the challenges along the way, the team persevered and ultimately succeeded in developing a groundbreaking project at WMSU that made a significant impact on the field of agriculture. Engr. Francisco’s win is a well-deserved recognition of the team’s tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to excellence.

In Engr. Arvic’s presentation, the accomplishments of the WMSU-ATBI (Western Mindanao State University Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator) project were highlighted. Notably, the project has offered a diverse portfolio of 44 technologies and successfully filed 8 trademarks and 18 copyrights, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and intellectual property protection. Equally impressive is the fact that their incubatees has generated 104 job opportunities, contributing to local employment and economic growth. With a total of 44 incubatees supported and 14 valuable partnerships established, the WMSU-ATBI has played a pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship and technology incubation. Additionally, the 2,072,349.00 gross income generated by WMSU ATBI incubatees underscores its significant economic impact, showcasing its success in nurturing businesses and promoting innovation within the region.

The winners of the AIHR have received certificate of recognition and shall also be receiving some cash prizes. Moreover, the winners for the Best Paper for R&D Categories (AFNR/S&T) shall be endorsed to compete in the prestigious WESMAARRDEC’s Regional Symposium on Research and Development Highlights (RSRDH) in November 2023.

The AIHR was a resounding success, showcasing the best and brightest of WMSU’s R&D community. The winners of the AIHR awards are role models for young scholars, and their work shows what is possible through perseverance, dedication, and hard work.

This year’s AIHR was attended by the researchers who conducted the completed research projects, including some WMSU Officials, faculty members, Research Coordinators, students, and representatives from funding agencies, academic institutions, and government agencies who served as panel of evaluators. The panel of evaluators for AFNR and Science and Technology included prominent individuals such as Dr. Synan S. Baguio, Director, DOST-PCAARRD, LRD; Dir. Ricardo A. Apolinario III, Asst. R.D, DOST – IX; Dr. Rufa Lara Mendez, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, ZSCMST; and Dr. Leonilo B. Abella, Director of WESMAARRDEC.