CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines—Samar State University’s Center for Engineering, Science and Technology Innovation (CESTI) conducted its In-House Review for 2026 IOB (Internal Operating Budget) Funding virtually on November 13, 2025, gathering project proponents, academic leaders, and external evaluators for the presentation and assessment of research and extension proposals.
The activity opened with remarks from Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, setting the tone for the evaluation process aimed at strengthening the university’s research and extension agenda for the upcoming fiscal year. A total of seven (7) research proposals and five (5) extension proposals were presented followed by open forums for questions and recommendations.
Research Proposals
- Sound Frequency-based Dog Deterrent System for Motorcycle Integration by Floretes, NA et al.
- Pilot Implementation & Evaluation of a Patient Portal and Telehealth Platform in Catbalogan City Philippines: Learning from European eHealth Models by Albina et al.
- In Vivo Wound Healing Efficacy of Paragies (Eleusine indica) Ointment on Albino Rats (Rattus norvegicus by Castillo, JH et al.
- Phytogenic Potential of Papaya Leaves (Carica papaya) as Feed Additives for Broodstock Development of Redclaw Crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) Under Low-cost Climate Resilient Set-up by Cantiga, et al.
- Microbial Contaminants on Tikog (Fimbristylis utilis) Grass: Health Implications for Handicraft Artisans in Basey, Samar by Alegria et al.
- Experiment Validation of Micro-Hydro Powered Poultry Automation System in Matuguinao, Samar by Dacles et al.
- Development and Quality Value-Added Oyster (Crassostrea iredalei) Food Products for Coastal and Emergency Food Systems by Albina et al.
Extension Proposals
- Building Local Capacity in Basic Civil Engineering Practices for Community Development in Paranas, Samar by Quebada et al.
- Promoting Renewable Energy in the Community through Information Materials, Seminars, and Educational Trainings (PRECISE) by Floretes et al.
- Development of QMS Procedures Manual of Matuguinao Micro-Hydro Facility by Dacles et al.
- SSU CARE Initiative: Coastal Action for Resilience and Eco-Engineering Sustainability Program by Albina et al.
- Enhancing the Durability and Shelf Life of Tikog (Fimbristylis utilis) Handicrafts through Biology-Based Preservation and Storage Practices by Alegria et al.
Four external evaluators served as panelists for the review, including Dr. John Glenn Ocaña, Regional Director of DOST Region VIII, Dr. Ruel A. Pili, Regional Consortia Coordinator of DOST-PCIEERD, Hon. Dr. Daniel Dasig Jr., Alumni Regent of the SSU Board of Regents, and Atty. Jose Buenagua, Chief Political Affairs Officer at the House of Representatives, representing Hon. Reynolds Michael Tan, Congressman of Samar’s 2nd District.
The presence of these representatives from key funding agencies and partner institutions turned the event into an opportunity for researchers to be given early feedback for potential external support. The evaluators then gave positive comments on the majority of the proposals, noting that several entries were highly commendable for possible external funding.
The activity concluded with messages from the panel, emphasizing the importance of research-driven and community-responsive initiatives in advancing development in the region.