Kalibo, Aklan โ The Aklan State University (ASU) Kalibo successfully conducted the Research and Development (R&D) Information Drive and Intellectual Property (IP) Awareness Forum on September 18, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the ASU Kalibo Function Hall. The event was spearheaded by the Research and Development Services, under the leadership of Prof. Marie Joy C. Roldan, R&D Chairperson, in partnership with the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO) Kalibo, headed by Dr. Kuwenya A. Ibisate.
The program formally opened with a warm message from Dr. Angeline G. Regalado, Campus Director, who emphasized the vital role of research and innovation in advancing the universityโs mission. This was followed by Prof. Roldanโs rationale of the activity and introduction of the resource persons, setting the tone for a productive and insightful discussion.
In the morning session, Prof. Julie Ann A. Salido, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Training, and Extension (RITE), shared updates on the ASU Research Agenda, current research trends, and the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in academic and community-based research. The presentation highlighted the universityโs commitment to generating knowledge that addresses pressing local and global challenges. An open forum allowed faculty participants to engage in meaningful dialogue and seek clarifications on research priorities.
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to intellectual property awareness. Dr. Ibisate, IPMO Chairperson, introduced the resource speakers, Prof. Syldy T. Villegas and Prof. Jonard N. Nabartey, faculty members from the College of Industrial Technology and staff of the Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO). Their talks centered on IP fundamentals, particularly the different forms of protection such as patents, trademarks, utility models, and industrial designs. An open forum followed, where participants raised insightful questions on IP policies and practices. Among those who responded was Dr. Jolitte A. Villaruz, Director of the Intellectual Property Management Office, responded with expertise as she provided valuable inputs and clarifications that further enriched the discussion.
The program concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Roldan, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, organizers, and participants for making the event a success. She also encouraged faculty members to continuously engage in research while protecting their intellectual property.
The whole-day activity was made more dynamic through the lively hosting of Mr. Jomars N. Lubrique, faculty member of the BSHM Program, who kept the sessions engaging and well-coordinated. The forum was actively participated in by selected faculty members of ASU Kalibo, reflecting the campusโ strong commitment to fostering a culture of research, innovation, and intellectual property awareness.
This activity forms part of ASUโs continuing efforts to build a vibrant research environment and promote intellectual property consciousness among its stakeholders.