June 18, 2025 — The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) has successfully concluded the three-day 2nd International Research Opportunities, Development, and Extension Outcomes (IRODEO) Conference 2025, held from June 16 to 18 at the Liceo De Masbate, City of Masbate. The event brought together more than 135 researchers, educators, and development practitioners from across the globe.
With the theme “Innovative Pathways to Sustainable Development: Strengthening Inclusive Research and Extension Collaborations for Future-Ready Solutions,” the conference aimed to foster academic exchange, strengthen inter-institutional linkages, and encourage collaborative research that addresses timely global and local issues.
Organized under the leadership of DEBESMSCAT’s President Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, the IRODEO Conference served as a platform for sharing ideas, presenting original research, and promoting innovative solutions. It featured plenary talks from local and international experts who shared their insights on various pressing concerns and sustainable strategies in research and extension work.
The event coincided with the 29th Rodeo Masbateño Festival, reinforcing DEBESMSCAT’s commitment to intertwining research, culture, and community development. Throughout the three-day event, participants engaged in a variety of activities, including research presentations, knowledge-sharing sessions, and creative extension showcases that highlighted the relevance of innovation and inclusive development.
In his message, Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac Jr., Vice President for Research, Development, Extension, Innovation, Creative Works, and Knowledge Management, expressed his deep gratitude to all the participants, guest speakers, board of judges, and partner institutions who contributed to the success of the event. He also commended the efforts of the organizing committee, support staff, collaborating agencies, and local government units for their invaluable support.
The conference culminated in an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding research presenters and best papers across various academic tracks. Among the fields covered were Arts and Humanities, Business and Economics, Engineering and Industrial Technology, Environmental Studies and Resource Management, Information Technology and Computing, Public Policy and Administration, Smart Agriculture, Fishery and Coastal Resources Management, and Social Sciences.
The success of the 2nd IRODEO Conference reaffirms DEBESMSCAT’s role as a driving force in promoting sustainable and inclusive research initiatives in the Bicol Region and beyond, as it continues to provide a platform for knowledge creation and development-focused collaborations.
Ladies and gentlemen,
