FROM EVIDENCE TO ACTION: WMSU Strengthens Research-to-Policy Translation Through Policy Brief Writing Workshop

Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), through the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension and the Research Development and Evaluation Center (RDEC), successfully conducted the two-day training-workshop, “Foundations of Policy Brief Writing: Evidence into Action – Researcher Training and Policy Presentation,” on June 17–18, 2026.

Held at the Celebrity Hall of Grand Astoria Hotel on the first day, the activity gathered 40 faculty researchers from various colleges of the university to strengthen their capacity in translating research findings into actionable policy recommendations.

Representing Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Teresita S. Narvaez, Dr. Dulce Amor Motondo delivered the Welcome Remarks and conveyed the inspirational message of University President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, emphasizing the vital role of research in shaping responsive and evidence-based policies.

A key highlight of the program was the presentation of the Mapping of University R&D Outcomes and Impacts by RDEC Director Dr. Reynante E. Autida, showcasing how university research contributes to development and public service.

Participants engaged in hands-on workshop sessions covering the review of completed research outputs, policy framing, evidence assembly, and the development of proposed solutions. The workshop also featured presentations of research outputs that have already been translated into policy and practice.

Among the featured research projects were:

• Accessibility of Healthcare Services Among Elderly Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic by Asso. Prof. Michel Vincent Calantas, which contributed to the formulation of Zamboanga City Ordinance No. 922, Series of 2026.

• Development of a Sustainable Raised Bed Frame from Recycled PET Bottles: Enhancing Urban Agriculture and Mitigating Plastic Waste by Dr. Elderico P. Tabal, benefiting St. Joseph School Foundation and ICAS-Tetuan Campus.

Providing valuable insights on policy development, Dir. Maria Felicidad R. Guerrero, Regional Director of DepDev IX, delivered a lecture on “Translating Research into Policy: Aligning Evidence with Economic Planning and Development Priorities.”

The second day, conducted via Zoom, focused on policy coaching and refinement workshops. The highlight was the plenary presentation and coaching session, where participants received expert feedback from a panel composed of Dir. Maria Felicidad R. Guerrero and Dr. Reynante E. Autida.

The activity reinforced WMSU’s commitment to ensuring that research extends beyond publication and contributes meaningfully to policy formulation, institutional development, and community transformation.