DOST Region 1 - Scholarship Unit

30/12/2025

30/12/2025

Did you know that Dr. Jose P. Rizal was not only a hero and writer but also an innovator, scientist, doctor, and researcher?

This Rizal Day, know more interesting facts about the life and works of Dr. Jose P. Rizal-the true scientist for the people.

Download “Dr. Jose P. Rizal: The Filipino Scientist Commemorative Magazine” via QR code or go to https://bit.ly/Rizal-TheFilipinoScientist.

24/12/2025

23/12/2025

Science, Spaces, and Service: My SRC 2025 Journey
By: Nikki Colin M. Bumatay

“Our work gains purpose when it builds, uplifts, and leaves a tangible impact on the world around us. ”

Going to SRC wasn’t in my plans at all because I wasn’t initially chosen. Everything was already set—my defense, my quizzes, and all my other academic responsibilities. Who would’ve thought that just a week before it started, a slot would open up for me? Without hesitation, I rescheduled my defense, packed my things, and went to Laguna. That, I think, shows how important SRC is. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I know I would regret not joining.

Upon arriving at the venue, everyone felt intimidating; it only showed how accomplished and important these people are, and having them all gathered in one place was overwhelming.

The first day started with us learning from Dr. Aris about the structure of publishable research. I was scared that I wouldn’t be able to catch up, partly because I felt small and alone. However, that day was also when I met friends and co-scholars who helped me despite my shortcomings. During the latter half of the day, we learned how to use certain statistical tools from Dr. Randolf himself. I initially thought this would be the hardest lesson for me because I was very unfamiliar with the tools and the different types of analysis, especially since our thesis only focuses on descriptive analysis and does not involve complicated computations. But Dr. Randolf and his team never left us behind. They personally approached and taught us, recognizing that each of us has a different and unique way of dealing with our research. I am truly grateful to both of them.

Dr. Bernardo started the second day with a clear and grounding message. Some of us may want to work in other countries to build our future, while some may want to stay and serve the country. We were neither discouraged nor stopped; instead, he reminded us of the essence of our scholarship. He spoke about the people working hard to pass the budget for our stipends and how fortunate we are to be scholars.
The discussion on predatory journals and publishing our work was very impactful. Midway through Dr. Jayeel’s session, I learned that many of my co-scholars had already published their own work. Once again, I was reminded that the world is big and that so many amazing people were gathered in one place. This lit a fire in me and ignited a deeper passion to strive and do better. It was my first time hearing about predatory journals and also the first time I seriously considered publishing my own work.

The session on human-centered design excited me the most, since architecture has always been rooted in human-centered principles. I was also able to share my thoughts and knowledge on participatory design. It is truly important to include the people and the community when planning and conducting research. One thing I will always carry with me is the phrase “Agham na Ramdam.” It is short, concise, and complete. Science should be for the people; the solutions we create through science and research should help communities and contribute to a better world for everyone.

The research exposure visit once again made me realize how important architecture is, and how significant my work can be in helping build better places and environments for all. The campus was built with all the necessary facilities to make innovation possible. While others were learning from their respective fields as we explored each building, I made the most of the experience by observing how the campus was designed. It is our duty as future architects and servant leaders to create spaces that are safe, comfortable, and sustainable for both people and the ecosystem.

The 2025 Scholars’ Research Camp greatly influenced my journey as Iskolar ng Bayan. As my final year in the academe approaches, I want to leave behind something meaningful and impactful. In just five days, this experience taught me countless lessons. It was truly a life-changing event, reshaping not only my perspective but also the direction of my work and purpose.
Balbaleg ya salamat, DOST-SEI, What I once thought was mere luck turned out to be an opportunity meant for me. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of the 2025 Scholars’ Research Camp.

22/12/2025

From Doubt to Purpose
By: Leinah B. Lomahan

“I arrived feeling small, but I left knowing that even small steps in science can create a meaningful change.”

Before the announcement of the chosen participants, I was not expecting to be part of the program. In all honesty, I was not confident in our research—to the point that I thought I had been chosen simply because I was part of a group thesis. However, I later realized that there was real potential in our study, and that was why I was there together with other scholars.

Upon arrival, I was scared of meeting new and amazing people. I felt like I was standing between tall buildings that were difficult for me even to look up to. I was always the doubtful one.

On the first day, I truly felt left behind. The things I knew were not even 1% of what I needed to know. That day, I realized the importance of understanding what people truly need—what we should do and how our work can genuinely help them. It was the day I reflected on whether the study I was working on could really benefit the people. This realization lit a spark in me, something I should have considered before choosing our research topic. Fortunately, we were able to relate our study to the Harmonized National R&D Agenda 2022–2028 and the Sustainable Development Goals. It was scary to realize that we should have known these earlier, but it was still better to learn them late than never. At that moment, I understood how meaningful it was to be there. Learning new knowledge was fun, and being part of the crowd was truly amazing.

On the second day, I felt more comfortable. This was the day I truly felt science for the people. It was a day filled with purpose. I learned how to communicate science in a way that everyone can understand and how to make science accessible to all. I also realized how important inclusion is in research. It is always about asking, communicating, and learning from the community. Moreover, as a researcher, it is deeply important to share one’s work through publication. I learned that we must be mindful of where we publish, especially with the existence of predatory journals. Once again, I am thankful to have grown from being clueless to becoming vigilant. On the night of Day 2, I also had the chance to talk with Dr. Jayeel about my feelings of being left behind at first, and what he shared truly inspired me. He wants science to reach everyone—just as he said in his speech: science for the last, the least, and the lost.

Day 3 was probably the day I socialized the most. I loved DLSU–Laguna Campus so much (and yes, they are green!). We toured the research facilities, and I was in awe. I could not believe that a campus could have such advanced facilities and equipment. The equipment is definitely a source of happiness for every researcher—and of course, for me as well. I also made friends from CSU, which made the day even better. That afternoon, we had the SRI (Synthesis, Reflection, and Insights), which was truly an eye-opener. I realized that although the three-day event was almost over, the knowledge I gained felt equivalent to an entire academic year.

Being part of the pioneer batch of this event truly filled my heart with glitter. It was an unexpected and unforgettable experience as a DOST Scholar. Deep in my heart, I realized that there are people I can help with the knowledge I have. Through SRC, I regained the motivation and inspiration I needed to get back on track and become someone who can make a significant difference—for the people, and for the nation.

Agyamanak unay, SRC 2025!

21/12/2025

Striving for Impact: Research That Matters
By: Wralph Aidan G. Viernes

Impact is not found in how complicated our research appears, but in how deeply it serves the people it was meant for.

The 2025 Scholars’ Research Camp (SRC) was not simply a gathering of scholars; it was a reckoning. From the very first moments of registration and orientation, it became clear that SRC was designed to challenge more than our technical skills. It challenged our assumptions about what good research looks like and, more importantly, what meaningful research should accomplish.

As the sessions began, we were grounded in the fundamentals of publishable research: structure, data collection, statistical analysis, interpretation, and ethical responsibility. Yet these were never framed as mere academic checklists. Instead, they were presented as commitments -- commitments to rigor, honesty, and accountability. The discussions emphasized that data without integrity is hollow, and writing without purpose is noise. Through intensive writing sessions and presentations, we were reminded that research does not end once results are obtained; it truly begins when insights are translated into knowledge that others can understand, evaluate, and use.

Midway through the program, SRC deliberately shifted its focus. The conversation moved from how research is conducted to why it must be done responsibly. Sessions on ethical and responsible conduct of research reinforced the idea that scholars are not neutral observers detached from society. Every research question we ask, every method we choose, and every conclusion we draw carries real-world implications. With this realization came a deeper sense of responsibility, not just to the academic community, but to the people and institutions our work ultimately affects.

This perspective was further strengthened through discussions on human-centered design and science communication. One of the most powerful lessons from SRC was the realization that complexity is often mistaken for intelligence. In truth, clarity is what gives research its power. Communicating science is not about oversimplifying ideas, but about making them accessible without stripping away depth. When research is designed with people in mind, it becomes a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion.

The sessions on publishing tied all these lessons together. Contribution, coherence, and clarity were emphasized as the foundations of impactful scholarship. Publishing is not about visibility alone, it is about responsibility. It asks whether our work genuinely adds value to existing knowledge and whether it speaks beyond the confines of academic circles. Each writing workshop and output presentation allowed us to practice these principles, showing how thoughtful revisions and purposeful framing can transform raw ideas into meaningful contributions.

The research exposure visit provided a tangible reminder that innovation flourishes where theory meets practice. Seeing research environments that value collaboration, relevance, and ethical standards reinforced the lessons learned throughout SRC. It became evident that impactful research is not accidental; it is cultivated through intentional design, disciplined ex*****on, and a clear sense of purpose.

The 2025 Scholars’ Research Camp (SRC) became a turning point not because of what transpired within its schedule, but because of the principle it compelled us to confront: that research must prioritize impact over complexity. More than an academic gathering, SRC served as a quiet but firm challenge to the way scholars often measure excellence. It questioned the habit of equating intelligence with density, and rigor with obscurity.

Throughout the experience, one idea became increasingly clear. Research that is difficult to understand is not automatically meaningful. Complexity, when pursued for its own sake, can become a barrier rather than a strength. SRC emphasized that the true value of research lies in its ability to create change, inform decisions, and respond to real needs. Impact is not diminished by clarity. On the contrary, clarity is what allows impact to travel.

This shift in perspective reframed how I understand my scholarship. To strive for impact is to be intentional. It means asking not only whether a study is methodologically sound, but whether it is relevant, ethical, and responsive. It means recognizing that research exists within society, not above it. Every concept we develop and every conclusion we publish carries consequences beyond the page. SRC reinforced that choosing clarity over unnecessary complexity is not an act of simplification, but of respect. It respects the audience, the community, and the purpose of knowledge itself. Research gains power when it invites engagement instead of exclusion, when it communicates rather than intimidates, and when it seeks understanding instead of admiration.

In a culture that often rewards technical density, SRC offered a different standard of excellence. It reminded us that scholarship is most powerful when it bridges gaps rather than widens them. Impact-driven research speaks across disciplines, reaches beyond institutions, and contributes to conversations that matter. It does not dilute rigor. It directs it. Carrying this lesson forward reshapes my role as a DOST scholar. Striving for impact over complexity means grounding my work in service, designing research with people in mind, and communicating ideas with responsibility and intent. It is a commitment to ensure that knowledge does not remain confined to academic spaces, but moves outward to inform, empower, and serve.

Maraming salamat sa DOST-SEI at sa lahat ng bumuo ng SRC 2025. The experience affirmed a guiding principle I will carry beyond this camp. Research matters most when it is understood, when it is used, and when it creates meaningful change for the people it is meant to serve. Karunungang taglay, sa bayan iaalay! Agyaman ak DOST-SEI, Balbaleg a salamat!

20/12/2025

Where Science Finds Its Purpose: My DOST SRC 2025 Journey
By: Enzy Yvonne B. Cuyo

“True science begins when knowledge meets service, and research transforms into a gift for the people. DOST SRC 2025 taught me that being a scholar means not only learning, but using that knowledge to uplift the community. Thus, as a Scholar ng Bayan, I now live by this mantra: science is not only something I study—it is something I owe to the people”.

What I thought would be an ordinary 17th of November became unforgettable when we received the news that our thesis had qualified for the first-ever DOST National Scholars’ Research Camp. For a moment, I was stunned and unable to continue with my task. I was overwhelmed by a surge of joy and excitement. After all, this opportunity involved a trip to Laguna—my very first event organized by the DOST that I would be able to attend.

As December 3 approached, several challenges emerged that nearly hindered our participation in the camp, particularly our final examinations. Nevertheless, we pushed ourselves and exerted our best efforts to ensure that none of our academic requirements were compromised.

Early in the morning of December 3, our trip from Ilocos Norte to Laguna officially began. At that point, I had yet to feel the full energy of the National Scholars Research Camp (SRC). However, upon arriving at the venue and attending the orientation, the vibrant atmosphere of SRC immediately embraced and thrilled me. Initially, I felt a sense of inferiority, surrounded by exceptionally bright students from various schools across the country. It was still hard to believe that I was one of them—chosen and privileged to be part of SRC 2025.

The Day 1 consisted of two productive sessions on Structure of Publishable Research, and Data Collection and Processing, Analysis Using Statistical Tools, and Interpretation. The learnings I had from this day significantly contributes to the improvements we need to do in our thesis paper as we also aim for it to be published.

The first session went with underscoring the importance of an IMRAD format and having a topic that must be anchored to the DOST Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda. It has hit me with an awakening call that this study is more than just a requirement I need to accomplish for me to graduate. It reminded me of that core purpose that must resonate within me especially when our speaker has shared his own experience of contributing to the community. Indeed, I was inspired by the way he used the financial opportunity given to him and the knowledge he possessed to help people to have a potable water source in a certain community. Then, I went back to our own research study and started to embrace the impact it can do to my own community as well.

Afterwhich, the second session was filled with new learnings as I first encountered applications other than MS Excel in analyzing gathered data like Jamovi, PSPP, and R Commander. There we found that the parameters we have set for our data will be so hard to analyze. But, this opens a chance for us to fix what needs to be fixed.
Here comes Day 2 which was another learning opportunity from three great speakers I have known. The third session was about Ethics and Responsible Conduct of Research. This was the session that struck me so hard about my responsibility as a Scholar ng Bayan. The study that we do must always benefit the Filipino people and in this way, we live with a sense of gratitude. Deepening this expectation, the fourth session about science communication has opened our understanding that empowerment is not lecture rather it is about allowing the community to uncover its problems and craft its solutions. Science communication is human centered design. Our role as scientist starts with a conversation with the people of the community. Listening to them is a first step to solving problems. The solutions and actions we must take must be tailored according to their necessities. And when we are able to realize and perform this great role, then we can say our knowledge has made a significant difference.

Lastly, the fifth session focused on Publishing 101: Contribution, Coherence, and Clarity. I gained valuable insights, particularly on the importance of selecting appropriate open-access journals and being mindful of my target audience. This session taught me to be more critical and cautious, especially in choosing and citing references for my study. More importantly, one statement deeply resonated with me: “Science is for the people.” It reminded me that the scientific work we pursue should not remain confined within laboratories or journals, but must be felt and experienced by the people of this country. At that moment, I began to reflect—has this already become my belief? Am I truly serving science in a way that reaches and benefits the people?

Days have passed, yet the lessons of this year’s SRC remain with me. The experience was both unforgettable and deeply meaningful. Beyond the knowledge gained, I formed friendships and connections that I hope will one day converge toward a greater purpose.

Thank you, DOST-SEI, for this wonderful event. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to be part of it. More than a research camp, it was an experience I truly needed as a scholar—one that allowed me to fully translate these words into action: “Lagi’t lagi para sa bayan.”

19/12/2025

SRC 2025: A Journey of Growth, Purpose, and Scholarly Transformation
By: Ansherihna D. Valdez

“The DOST Scholars Research Camp is more than just a gathering of young researchers—it's a space where ideas are strengthened, potentials are awakened, and scholars learn what it truly means to create knowledge that serves the nation. ”
Never in my wildest expectations did I think I would become part of the first-ever DOST Scholars Research Camp. I genuinely believed our thesis wouldn’t make it; after all, it was “just” a descriptive study, and in my mind, that automatically made it less competitive than others. I had already accepted that maybe it just wasn’t our time yet. But when the results came out and I saw my name in the list, it felt like the world froze for a moment. A wave of euphoria rushed through me, one of those rare moments when disbelief and joy collide. I immediately messaged my groupmates and our adviser, and the happiness we shared in that moment was indescribable. That was when I realized something important: sometimes the things we doubt the most turn out to be the milestones that change our lives. Never underestimate your research, no matter what type it is. The impact of your work is bigger than your doubts, trust the process and trust yourself.

Fast-forward to Day 1 of the SRC. The day felt like a whirlwind. We arrived late and had to rush straight into the orientation without catching our breath. Even so, the energy of the event was comforting. What amazed me first was how organized and welcoming everything was. The distribution of kits felt symbolic, as if DOST was telling us, “You belong here. You earned this.” Each scholar received an SRC shirt, a bag, a lanyard with ID, a jacket, a notebook, and a ballpen. As someone attending their first-ever DOST event, I was genuinely touched. The amount of thought, preparation, and effort poured into Day 1 alone spoke volumes about how much they value their scholars. It made me feel proud, not just to be part of the camp, but to be a DOST scholar in the first place.

Day 2 was nothing short of inspiring. Our first session explored the structure of a publishable research, and it opened my eyes to how much potential our thesis still had. It wasn’t just about meeting academic requirements anymore, it became about contributing something meaningful. Session 2 introduced us to Jamovi, a statistical tool that was surprisingly easy to use. We were amazed at how accessible it was, and I remember feeling excited because, for the first time, statistics didn’t feel intimidating. Instead, it felt empowering; something I could master and apply confidently.

Day 3 was definitely the most learning-packed day. We attended three sessions covering ethical and responsible research conduct, human-centered design for science communication, and Publishing 101: contribution, coherence, and clarity. The second session was my favorite because of the interactive workshop. We got to be creative; we acted, interpreted concepts, and presented our ideas using manila paper. It was so fun seeing everyone express themselves in their own unique ways. But at the same time, the first and third sessions grounded us. They reminded us that ethics is not just a requirement but a responsibility, and that we must protect ourselves from predatory journals that could harm our academic credibility. Those sessions humbled me and made me more aware of the standards we must uphold as researchers.

Then came the last day, a bittersweet one. We visited the De La Salle University Laguna Campus for a field trip and explored their research facilities. Walking through the halls of their laboratories made me realize something profound: collaboration is powerful. Being exposed to advanced equipment, innovative projects, and a new academic environment made me see that research is not something we do alone. Connecting with other universities and institutions can enrich our thesis and allow us to create more meaningful impact for the people we aim to help.

Looking back, the SRC has truly become one of the most unforgettable and transformative journeys of my life as a DOST scholar. It wasn’t just a camp, it was a reminder of why we started our research journey in the first place. It taught me to be intentional with every word we write, to truly understand the people we are writing for, and to recognize the bigger purpose behind every study we conduct. Most importantly, SRC became a space where scholars connected deeply; sharing stories, exchanging ideas, supporting each other, and inspiring one another. The sense of community, belongingness, and interconnectedness we built will remain one of the most meaningful parts of this entire experience.

For future SRC delegates: this camp is designed not to measure how “expert” you are, but to guide you toward becoming the researcher you aspire to be. It will challenge you, empower you, and expose you to the standards and responsibilities of real-world research. SRC teaches you that research is not only about data and papers, it is about ethics, compassion, collaboration, and the impact your work leaves on people and communities.

In SRC, scholars discover that research is not intimidating, it is transformative. It is a journey of learning, unlearning, and relearning. A journey where you meet people who share your dreams, mentors who shape your direction, and experiences that prepare you for a future of service and innovation.
So as you enter the DOST Scholars Research Camp, enter with an open mind and an open heart.

Because SRC is not just a program, it is a turning point.
A reminder that you are capable, your voice matters, and your research has the power to change lives.

Agyamanak, DOST SRC 2025. Thank you for shaping us, challenging us, and believing in us even when we had doubts about ourselves. The learnings, the wisdom, the friendships, and the memories we gained will always be engraved in my heart. You have given us more than knowledge, you have given us confidence, direction, and a renewed sense of purpose.

19/12/2025

19/12/2025

𝑾𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂 𝒃𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒋𝒐𝒚 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎.

𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐫, 𝐉𝐞𝐦𝐫𝐢𝐜! Your PSU-BC DOST SA family celebrates you today—not just for your hard work, but for the laughter and warmth you effortlessly share.

May this year bring you moments that sparkle, paths that open wide, and happiness that reflects the very same energy you gift to others every day.

Your presence is sunshine, and we’re grateful for you. Happy birthday! 🎉✨

18/12/2025

What Truly Matters: Lessons from SRC 2025
By: Andrei Peter V. Canales

“A research topic is born from the community and must be communicated back to the community in a way they understand. From its inception to its conclusion, the Scholars Research Camp taught me that research is for the people and made me realize that research has always been for the people.”

The ambivalence of doubt and excitement hit me when I learned that I would be participating in the first-ever research camp in Laguna from Dec 3–7. After all, I don’t have a strong research background, so it felt almost like divine intervention to be surrounded by such bright and generous minds at SRC.

To be honest, I felt overwhelmed during my days at the camp. I was surrounded by students who already had internationally published articles—some studying the Sierra Madre, jellyfish, and phytochemical technical jargon something—and even the Education student I thought I could relate to had created an AI system. I began to question whether my own research truly mattered. But on Day 1, I realized that research is about impact, not complexity. I also learned the importance of believing in your own work and the significant impact it can have. Perhaps my topic is simple, but I hope it can bring meaningful change to my respondents. This realization inspired a new creed for me: to design research around the needs of my community. In the future, I want to explore my local community—to observe, to listen, and to ask my neighbors: How can I make a positive impact in our community?

The second day made me rethink how I communicate science. I used to believe that translating technical terms into layman’s language was enough, but I realized I had been doing it wrong. People already possess knowledge; our role is to empower them and help them recognize that they have always had the science within themselves to solve problems. Science communication is not just a tool for informing—it is a tool for empowering. It reminds us not to treat communities as if they lack something, but to uplift them as people who already have the capacity to understand and act. Communication must be human-centric, shaped not by our expertise, but by the needs, realities, and voices of the community.

The third day’s trip amazed me, but it also highlighted the stark differences between their facilities and my school. They have advanced equipment, while we barely have a functioning microscope. It was encouraging to learn that collaboration is possible because science thrives when people work together. Still, I dream of a day when every school has the resources it needs. The day ended with a challenge from Dr. Aris: to question established beliefs for the sake of progress, just as the intellectual revolutions that shaped science have done. To stand for the truth, even if it means standing alone. Yet I know I am never truly alone—I have the support of my peers at the camp, and I strongly believe that as long as there are scientists committed to discovery, the truth will always find its way to light.

I would like to conclude with the words of our beloved director, Dr. Jayeel Cornelio: Science is for the people and must always serve them. Can we truly call knowledge “wisdom” if it benefits no one, like a lamp lit but hidden under a basket? Our communities should guide how science grows and flourishes.

This was a unique experience—my first five-day event that felt like an entire semester of learning. Thank you to the DOST-SEI for making this possible and connecting me with these wonderful people, I know your initiative for the next SRCs will foster a research-oriented community. Makakaasa kayo na ang bawat dunong na ibinigay ninyo sa akin ay maibabahagi ko sa aking mga magiging mag-aaral, na sisikapin kong hubugin bilang mga tagapagsulong ng pananaliksik at agham para sa Pilipinas.

Thanks to God and DOST. Love..love..

Tags:
DOST-Science Education Institute
DOST SEI The Filipino Patriot Scholars Program
DOST 1 - Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. 1
DOST Mobilized Amianan Youth Scholars’ Association
DOST - SICAP