Institute for Strategic Research and Development Studies

16/10/2026

16/10/2026

16/10/2026

ISRDS Director Joins PH-EITI Delegation for Weeklong Engagement in Belgium

The Institute for Strategic Research and Development Studies (ISRDS) proudly recognizes the participation of its Director, Assoc. Prof. Maria Aurora Teresita “Tess” W. Tabada, as part of the Philippine Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (PH-EITI) delegation in a weeklong engagement in Belgium.

As a member of the PH-EITI Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG), Director Tabada joined a series of activities focused on advancing transparent and accountable natural resource governance.

On October 9, 2026, the delegation attended a networking and dinner reception hosted by His Excellency Jaime Victor B. Ledda, Philippine Ambassador to Belgium, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and the European Union, at the Philippine Embassy. The gathering provided an opportunity for Philippine stakeholders to exchange perspectives on strengthening collaboration in natural resource governance, particularly in the context of the Philippines’ energy emergency.

The delegation’s major engagement in Belgium is participation in the 10th EITI Global Conference, which brings together stakeholders from across the globe to advance transparency, accountability, and good governance in the extractive industries.

ISRDS commends Director Tabada’s continued engagement in multi-stakeholder initiatives that contribute to evidence-informed dialogue, institutional collaboration, and responsible natural resource governance.

13/09/2026

🌏 VSU-ISRDS SCIENCE RESEARCH SPECIALIST PRESENTS AT ICOSS 2026

The ISRDS proudly congratulates Ms. Melodina P. Edullantes, Science Research Specialist of the ISRDS-BIDANI Extension Program, for presenting her research at the 13th International Conference on Social Sciences (ICOSS 2026) held on September 7–8, 2026, in Bali, Indonesia.

Her paper, “Citizens’ Awareness, Availment, and Satisfaction of the Social Welfare Programs and Services of Baybay City,” contributes to the continuing discourse on inclusive, responsive, and citizen-centered social welfare services.

Her participation highlights VSU-ISRDS’ commitment to research excellence, knowledge exchange, and research-driven community development, while strengthening the University’s engagement in international academic and research platforms.

Congratulations, Ms. Edullantes, for representing VSU-ISRDS and the BIDANI Extension Program on the international stage! 👏🌏

08/09/2026

Proud to share this meaningful engagement of the ISRDS in supporting Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment through capacity building and knowledge sharing.

On August 26, 2026, the City College of Ormoc (CCO) Gender and Development Technical Working Group (GAD-TWG) successfully conducted a Capacity Building on GAD Fundamentals and Gender Mainstreaming, with our very own Assoc. Prof. Maria Aurora Teresita W. Tabada (Tess Tabada) serving as the resource speaker.

Drawing from her extensive experience in GAD initiatives and trainings, Ma’am Tess shared valuable insights on gender and development, gender mainstreaming, GAD planning and budgeting, gender-related data, and relevant policies and mandates.

Activities such as this contribute to building a more gender-responsive, inclusive, and equitable academic community, while strengthening our collective commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women.

Thank you, CCO GAD-TWG, for this meaningful partnership and engagement. 💜

19/08/2026

CONGRATULATIONS, MR. ENRICO PITOGO BARGAMENTO!

The Institute for Strategic Research and Development Studies (ISRDS), Visayas State University, proudly congratulates Mr. Enrico Pitogo Bargamento, a graduate of MS Development Sociology, for being named Best Presenter at the 11th University Consortium Graduate Forum 2026, held at Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia, with the theme:

“Building Research Capacity for Food Security: Innovating Solutions for Sustainable Systems.”

Mr. Bargamento presented his research entitled:

“Negotiating Modernization: Tenant Lived Experiences with Rice Farming Technologies in Rural Philippines”

His presentation was recognized as Best Presenter in both:

• Subtheme 2: Policy and Governance in Food Security Research
• Subtheme 4: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Food Security

His study examined the lived experiences of tenant farmers in Barangay Tuguipa, Hilongos, Leyte, as they navigate the adoption of modern rice farming technologies. The findings highlighted challenges related to rising input costs, credit dependence, irrigation shortages, pest pressures, terrain limitations, limited technical training, and socio-cultural perceptions of mechanization.

The study emphasized the importance of localized extension governance, equitable risk-sharing, and participatory technology design in promoting inclusive and sustainable food systems.

The presentation was evaluated by Plenary Speaker Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Nur Azura Adam and Chairperson Dr. Nurul Nadia Ramli.

As Best Presenter, Mr. Bargamento was also awarded RM150.

This achievement reflects the quality of research produced by our graduate students and the importance of bringing local and community-based perspectives into broader conversations on food security and sustainable development.

Congratulations, Enrico! ISRDS is proud of this remarkable achievement. 🌾

22/07/2026

🎓 ISRDS Proudly Congratulates Our Graduates! 🎉

The Institute for Strategic Research and Development Studies (ISRDS), Visayas State University, proudly celebrates the achievements of our graduates.

🌟 Carolyn L. Ala
Master in Land Administration and Management

🌟 Enrico P. Bargamento
Master of Science in Development Sociology

🌟 Jake Ralph P. Pilare
Master of Science in Development Sociology

Your hard work, perseverance, and commitment to learning have led you to this well-deserved milestone. As you begin the next chapter of your journey, may you continue to create positive change through your knowledge, leadership, and service.

Your ISRDS family is proud of you and joins in celebrating your success.

Congratulations, graduates! We wish you all the best in your future endeavors. 🎓💚💙

21/07/2026

🌿 The ISRDS proudly shares this upcoming webinar in celebration of the 2026 National Disaster Resilience Month!

We are honored that two speakers from ISRDS will be among the distinguished panelists sharing their expertise on resilience, climate action, research, and community leadership.

📅 25 July 2026
⏰ 4:00–6:00 PM (PST)
💻 Via Zoom

🔗 Register here: https://bit.ly/Women-Frontlines

We invite our partners, faculty, staff, students, and the public to join this timely and meaningful discussion on building safer, more inclusive, and climate-resilient communities.

🌿 Join us for “Women at the Frontlines of Resilience”

In celebration of 2026 National Disaster Resilience Month, we invite you to an inspiring online discussion highlighting women’s stories of climate action, preparedness, research, and community leadership.

📅 25 July 2026
⏰ 4:00–6:00 PM Philippine Standard Time
💻 Via Zoom

Hear from distinguished women leaders, researchers, educators, and resilience practitioners as they share experiences and insights from communities at the frontlines of climate and disaster risks.

🔗 Register here: https://bit.ly/Women-Frontlines
You may also scan the QR code on the poster.

Participation is open to educators, researchers, students, community leaders, development practitioners, and everyone committed to building safer, more inclusive, and climate-resilient communities.

We look forward to welcoming you!