The initial Stakeholders’ Meeting for the establishment of Davao de Oro Environmental Laboratory and Research Center: Expanding from Mineral to Environmental Testing took place on September 10, 2024, at the Learning Commons, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao, Davao City.
The event started with a warm welcome from the Mapúa MCM EVP-COO Engr. Alehandro H. Ballado Jr. to various higher education institutions and government agencies. Among the esteemed guests and participants were the Department of Science and Technology – XI (DOST-XI) Assistant Regional Director for R&D in Development Innovation Division, Ms. Mayan J. Inni, and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency – XI (NICA-XI) Assistant Regional Director, Mr. Nale Archie Romitman.
In his welcome remarks, EVP Ballado Jr. emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared vision in achieving our environmental and mineral research goals. He highlighted the critical role each stakeholder plays in this transformative journey. Dr. Gernelyn T. Logrosa, the Project Leader and Head of the Office for Research, Development, and Innovation of Mapúa MCM, presented the project’s objectives, achievements to date, ongoing efforts, and future opportunities. She highlighted the meticulous project management strategies to ensure the laboratory and research center’s success.
The meeting was pivotal for stakeholders’ consultation and needs assessment to align the collective efforts towards the establishment of the laboratory and research center. It provided a platform for open dialogue, fostering a shared understanding of the project’s significance and the collaborative steps needed to achieve the goals through a Focused Group Discussion (FGD). Also featured in the event was the quick campus tour to the Hydraulics Laboratory, Universal Testing Machine, and the General Chemistry Laboratory of Mapua Malayan Colleges Mindanao. The tour showcased the Mapúa MCM laboratory facilities that aid in research, development, and innovation.
Anchored on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this initiative aims to promote sustainable economy, environmental practices, and scientific research that will benefit the community and beyond. Together, we are committed to advancing SDG 6 (Clean water and Sanitation), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).