STCIEERD successfully conducts two-day Innovation Horizons Seminar-Workshop
The Southern Tagalog Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (STCIEERD) successfully conducted the two-day Seminar-Workshop on Innovation Horizons: Empowering Consortium Members through Design and Futures Thinking Strategies on March 20-21, 2025, at Hortz Hotels and Resorts, Tagaytay City. The event aimed to strengthen the region’s research ecosystem by equipping participants with innovative methodologies to enhance strategic planning, problem-solving, and collaboration in science, technology, and industry.
The event was attended by key figures from the consortium, including Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, STCIEERD Consortium Chair and President of Batangas State University; Engr. Albertson D. Amante, Vice President of Research Development & Extension Services of Batangas State University; and Dr. Lorcelie B. Taclan, Consortium Director of the Adventist University of the Philippines.
Dr. Ronquillo emphasized in his message the importance of applying the strategies learned in the workshop. He said, “Certainly, after this two-day workshop, we would be knowledgeable on applying Design Thinking and Futures Thinking strategies on how our region can collaborate for the further development of our region. We can always point against the limitations of our resources; don’t look at those limitations, look for opportunities, look for ways and pursue what needs to be done.”
The first day of the workshop focused on Design Thinking, a human-centered approach to problem-solving that fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration in addressing complex challenges. The session was facilitated by Dr. Felix C. Veroya, CEO and Co-Founder of Ask Lex PH Academy, who guided participants through interactive exercises and discussions aimed at refining their research and project development strategies.
In addition, Engr. Francisco R. Barquilla III, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations, and DOST-PCIEERD representatives Ms. Marie Christie B. Santos, Mr. Ruel A. Pili, and Ms. Mary Joy Zabala presented their respective priority research areas to help participants align their proposals with the national research and development agenda.
The second day of the workshop shifted to Futures Thinking, a strategic approach that helps organizations anticipate and prepare for future challenges and opportunities. Facilitated by Mr. Ryan Randle B. Rivera, EnP, of the University of the Philippines, the session provided essential methodologies and frameworks to help participants envision long-term trends, develop forward-thinking strategies, and drive innovation in research and development. The discussions emphasized how Futures Thinking enables institutions to adapt and shape future trends, ensuring the long-term relevance and impact of their initiatives.
Throughout the two-day seminar-workshop, participants were introduced to essential tools and methodologies for Design and Futures Thinking, encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, and guided in generating actionable ideas that could lead to tangible research outputs and partnerships.
With the successful completion of the workshop, STCIEERD reaffirmed its dedication to supporting researchers, industry leaders, and innovators in developing sustainable and forward-thinking solutions.
