📖 Strengthening Research Governance, Management, and Financial Accountability in R&D Implementation January 19–21, 2026 | Villa Silvina Hotel & Restaurant, Outlook Drive, Baguio City

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The Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD) recently conducted a multi-day capacity-building activity aimed at enhancing the competencies of Consortium Member Institutions (CMIs) in research governance, research and development (R&D) management, strategic collaboration, and grants-in-aid (GIA) financial administration.

In her opening message, Dr. Ruth S. Batani, Consortium Director, emphasized the importance of strengthening both the technical and administrative foundations of research implementation. She highlighted that sound research governance, effective management, and financial accountability are essential in ensuring that publicly funded research delivers meaningful, ethical, and sustainable outcomes for communities in the Cordillera region.

The activity commenced with a comprehensive session on R&D management delivered by Dr. Jaine Cadoc-Reyes, DPA, Professor at the Institute for Development and Rural Development, College of Public Affairs and Development at the University of the Philippines- Los Baños. The discussion provided participants with a deeper understanding of the nature and culture of scientific R&D systems, the research and development process, and the role of creativity, innovation, and policy in advancing science.

Dr. Cadoc-Reyes emphasized the distinctions among basic, applied, and advanced research, the importance of multi- and interdisciplinary approaches, and the critical role of effective leadership and management in reconciling individual researcher interests with institutional goals. She also discussed relevant national policies and laws that promote creativity, productivity, and accountability in the Philippine R&D system, including intellectual property, technology transfer, and government procurement reforms.

The second major session was facilitated by Dr. Jesselle S. Laranas, Supervising Science Research Specialist of the Office of the Executive Director for Research and Development (OED-RD), DOST-PCAARRD. Her presentation focused on the core principles of research governance and its distinction from research management, highlighting governance as the overarching framework that ensures ethical, transparent, and high-quality research conduct

Dr. Laranas discussed the elements of good research governance, such as transparency, openness, proportionality, and ethical–scientific synergy. The session also explored the value of strategic partnerships and collaboration, underscoring trust, shared objectives, and clear communication as foundations for collaborative advantage. Practical examples from academic institutions, local government units, and partner agencies enriched the discussion and demonstrated how effective collaboration strengthens research impact and public accountability.

Reflecting on the discussions, one participant shared:
“The sessions helped us realize that research success is not only measured by outputs, but also by how well our teams communicate, collaborate, and remain accountable, from project planning to implementation and utilization.”

The third major component of the activity focused on the financial and administrative aspects of R&D implementation under the DOST Grants-in-Aid mechanism. Ms. Ma. Josette B. San Luis, also from DOST-PCAARRD OED-RD, presented the updated DOST GIA Guidelines and Amendments, providing clarity on institutional roles, proposal evaluation criteria, fund release processes, and alignment with the Harmonized National R&D Agenda and PCAARRD’s Integrated Strategic Plans.

Ms. San Luis emphasized the importance of sound proposal preparation, complete documentation, prior consultation, and the effective use of the DOST Project Management Information System to ensure timely processing and approval of projects.

This was followed by a detailed session led by Ms. Alyssa D. Masa, Administrative Assistant II, and Mr. RJ B. Joble, CorCAARRD focal person, both from the Finance and Administrative Division of DOST-PCAARRD. Ms. Masa and Mr. Joble guided the participants through the financial requirements of GIA projects. Their discussion focused on the proper use of prescribed financial forms, common compliance issues, and best practices in financial reporting and liquidation to support efficient fund utilization and minimize delays and disallowances.

An interactive per-agency consultation session was also facilitated by the resource persons providing participants with the opportunity to discuss ongoing, newly proposed, and unliquidated projects. Case-specific clarifications and technical advice were offered to address financial, administrative, and documentation-related concerns, reinforcing shared accountability between project leaders and support units.

Overall, the activity reinforced the importance of strong research governance, effective R&D management, strategic partnerships, and sound financial systems in delivering ethical, accountable, and impactful research outcomes. As another participant noted:

“The activity bridged the gap between research, administration, and finance, helping us better understand our shared roles in ensuring that projects are not only implemented efficiently but also create real impact.”

Through this initiative, CorCAARRD continues to strengthen institutional capacities and promote a culture of collaboration, transparency, and excellence in research and development across the Cordillera region.

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