To turn vision into action, the Central Luzon Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development Consortium (CLIEERDEC) held its annual Operational Planning Workshop at Le Charmé Suites, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, on October 8–10, 2025.

Dr. Marilene Hipolito, NEUST Research Services Department Director and CLIEERDEC Director, formally opened the workshop by emphasizing unity, collaboration, and shared purpose among member institutions.

She highlighted that the annual planning is not merely a procedural task but an opportunity to review accomplishments, realign goals, and strengthen partnerships for the benefit of Central Luzon’s people and industries.

“This planning activity is not just a routine exercise—it is an opportunity to strengthen collaboration, sharpen our strategies, and ensure that our research and innovation truly make an impact,” she said.

In her message, NEUST President and CLIEERDEC Chair Dr. Rhodora Jugo emphasized that the annual operational planning strengthens partnerships and drives innovation across Central Luzon, noting that the Philippines’ rise in the Global Innovation Index reflects the nation’s growing creativity and resilience.

“This is not just about planning—it is about shaping the future of innovation for Central Luzon, and when universities, industries, agencies, and communities work together, true progress begins,” she emphasized.

The discussion included committee reports from consortia members, presenting their targets and accomplishments for the year.

Dr. Murphy Mohammed reported for the Research and Development Management Committee, and Engr. John Denver Catapang presented for the Human Resource Development Committee.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kenneth Armas reported for the Commercialization and Techno Transfer Management Committee, and Maria Karysa Calang, CLIEERDEC Secretariat, presented the Resource Generation, Linkages, and Cooperation Committee report along with the financial report.

The rest of the event was filled with various workshops, and it concluded with the creation of an Institution Research Readiness Level Assessment (IRRLA) by an Ad Hoc Committee and an open forum.

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