Dr. Souvenir D. Tachado, a Filipino scientist and DOST Balik Scientist Program Awardee, received praise from the WVSU community for his contributions towards the betterment of the University’s research capabilities during the presentation of his exit report entitled, “Cultivating Scientific Advancement: Insights from a Balik Scientist at WVSU” Held at Diversion 21 Hotel last August 13, 2024, the presentation of the exit report focused on Dr. Tachado’s various engagements wherein he conducted relevant faculty development and student mentorship activities that provided skills enhancement and guidance in areas like research design, scientific communication, and pursuance of advanced studies and careers in science and technology.
Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU President, expressed his gratitude to Dr. Tachado for his significant contributions during his return in the country and service in West Visayas State University (WVSU) wherein his knowledge sharing and assistance to the University researchers posed relevance in bridging the gap between local research landscape and the global scientific community. Dr. Tachado brings extensive expertise in the fields of urology, molecular biology, cell biology, and immunology, and has significant contributions to these fields through research and publications. He is the awardee of the Department of Science and Technology’s Balik Scientist Program (DOST-BSP) and was hosted by WVSU for his six-month engagement. Representatives from WVSU later gave their insights and impressions about the program. Dr. Victor A. Amantillo, Jr., Dean of the College of Medicine, stated how Dr. Tachado “served as local scientist venturing and achieving in the global scene” and how this representation can also inspire faculty and students in the field of research.
Meanwhile, Dr. Eva Jover-Catedral, a faculty member and one of Dr. Tachado’s research mentees, reiterated how persistent he was in encouraging faculty members to commit their full potential in research and publication. “He encouraged us not only as student researchers, but also as thinkers beyond conventional boundaries,” according to Jjessmar A. Fama, one of the medical students whom Dr. Tachado mentored through regional and national research competitions. In his exit report, Dr. Tachado also expressed the needs to be addressed in the enhancement research capacity in the country, such as gaps in scientific inquiry skills and limited global engagement through collaboration with international research institutions.
“The future of Research and Innovation ecosystem in this country is bright, but it requires continuous support and strategic investments,” Tachado said, emphasizing the need to increase funding for scholarships and researches that have potential for breakthrough discoveries. Dr. Tachado ended his presentation with gratitude to the DOST BSP and WVSU. He also disclosed his plans after the program, such as facilitating international collaborations and joint research proposals and continuing mentorship programs for faculty, students, and researchers. Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs and BSP Coordinator, spoke on Dr. Tachado’s confidence in the medical students’ research capabilities despite diverse limitations.
“Dr. Tachado never exhibited any sense of superiority nor boasted about the advanced technologies of his laboratories abroad. We can feel his genuine sincerity in helping us develop our own research facilities, and train our scientists and medical consultants,” said Dr. Malata. Towards the end of the program, Vice President of Research, Innovation, and Extension, Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, highlighted the power and benefits of linkages, networking, and relationship-building in the context of academics and research.
She also assured that WVSU will continue and strengthen the legacy of Dr. Tachado in research and mentorship beyond his engagement with the University. The DOST-BSP encourages Filipino researchers and scientists to return to the Philippines and share their expertise and promote information exchange for the scientific and technological development of the academe, public and private institutions in the country.
