First DOST Visayas Management Conference

The top and middle managers of the DOST Regional Offices Number 6, 7, and 8 gathered in Sugarland Hotel, Bacolod City on March 4-5 in the First Visayas Cluster Management Conference to craft a cohesive plan to address major issues relevant to current DOST programs and policies. This is a step ahead in the DOST Visayas family's dream of "One Visayas connected with waters" guided by the principles that working together builds a strong organization. Shall we say it "1 > 3" or "6 + 7+ 8 = 1."
Among the major issues discussed were the sharing of best practices in the areas of technology transfer, human resource development, and networking. In the course of program implementations, issues and problems were identified and then integrated plans for whole of Visayas was developed. The conference was also made a venue in developing a stronger bond among DOST Visayas personnel through fellowship event during the 1st day.

Among the DOST officials present were Usec. Graciano P. Yumul Jr., Dr. Nuna Almanzor, ITDI Executive Director, Engr. Edgar Garcia of TAPI with Mr Jess Torreda and Rose Olaer, Ms. Ninaliza Escorial of PCIERRD, Dr. Mario Capanzana, Executive Director of FNRI, Ms. Lauren Teena Velasquez of TRC, and a representative from SET-UP NPMO Mr. Ronnel Palileo. The PSTDs from Visayas component provinces and the ARDs and program coordinators from the 3 Regional offices were the major actors in the conference. The presence and able leadership of the 3 Regional Directors, Engr. Rowen Gelonga, Engr. Rene Burt Llanto, and Engr. Edgardo Esperancilla, made the event a very fruitful one.

As the group returned to their respective areas, each one is eyeing for the next round of gatherings to push out the plans that were forged during the event.