The Development Academy of the Philippines, through its Graduate School of Public and Development Management successfully conducted its Research on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Futures Thinking Regional Caravan, held on September 13, 2025 at the Mindanao State University – General Santos (MSU-GenSan). This initiative aimed to foster sustainable growth and development. This event was a significant step in fostering sustainable growth and development across the region.

A warm welcome from MSU-GenSan’s leadership 

MSU-GenSan Campus Chancellor Atty. Shidik T. Abantas, MDM, LLM, kicked off the event with a heartfelt welcome, expressing gratitude to DAP for facilitating the event and highlighting the importance of such initiatives for the community. 

Key insights from the caravan

DAP-GSPDM Dean Lizan E. Perante-Calina emphasized the caravan’s mission: to drive positive change in policymaking and development planning by disseminating crucial research on SDGs.

Dr. Ruperto S. Sangalang, esteemed DAP-GSPDM Research Fellow, presented his study that explored the state of Philippine rice security and possible economic scenarios that the country will face. 

Professor Eric Daniel De Torres explored the complexities of national-local relations, focusing on bridging the gap between the national government and local government units through effective devolution transition plans.

The caravan concluded with a synthesis from Dr. Mario J. Aguja, Dean of MSU-GenSan’s Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, who reaffirmed MSU-GenSan’s unwavering support for DAP’s efforts in cascading research on SDGs and futures thinking. 

Strengthening local ties through knowledge sharing 

As part of the caravan, DAP-GSPDM also held an exploratory meeting with local government officials from Polomolok and Koronadal. During this meeting, the Graduate School turned over valuable knowledge products, including research compendia, further cementing its commitment to promoting futures thinking and sustainable development across the Philippines. 

The event not only promoted the exchange of knowledge but also reinforced DAP-GSPDM’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable development goals through research, dialogue, and collaboration.