15/10/2026
๐๐๐ฌ ๐ฎ ๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ฃ | ๐ฃ๐๐ฅ๐ง ๐๐: ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ถ๐๐ฐ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐, ๐๐๐น๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐
๐ฐ๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ, ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ผ๐๐๐ต๐ถ๐ฝ
Scientific research and cultural heritage offer different but complementary ways of understanding a provinceโone through evidence and discovery, the other through history and identity. These perspectives shaped the afternoon activities of the second day of the International Conference on Methodological Advances in Research (ICMAR) 2026 on October 14, as delegates visited key provincial facilities before joining local officials for an evening of fellowship.
The educational tour brought participants to the Agusan del Sur State-of-the-Art Soil Laboratory, providing an opportunity to learn about the provinceโs scientific facilities and the role of laboratory-based research in addressing agricultural and environmental concerns. The visit underscored the importance of scientific resources in generating reliable information that can support decision-making, particularly in a province where agriculture remains an important part of local development.
The delegates also visited Sugwak tu Agusan, the Provincial Museum of Agusan del Sur, to explore the provinceโs cultural and historical heritage. The museum visit offered a different perspective on knowledgeโone rooted in the stories, traditions, and identity of the people. Together, the two destinations highlighted how scientific inquiry and cultural understanding can contribute to a more comprehensive appreciation of the province.
Beyond the educational tour, the afternoonโs activities provided delegates with a closer look at Agusan del Surโs local resources and the broader context in which research takes place. Such exposure allows academic discussions to connect with actual institutions, local experiences, and the development priorities of the communities researchers seek to understand.
The day continued with the Governorโs and Congressmenโs Night, which gathered conference participants and provincial leaders in recognition of the event and the partnerships that make scholarly exchanges possible.
Hon. Santiago B. Cane Jr., Governor of Agusan del Sur, addressed the gathering, recognizing the significance of hosting an international research conference in the province. His message highlighted the value of bringing together researchers, academic institutions, and other stakeholders in creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Hon. Adolph Edward G. Plaza, Doctor of Agriculture (Honoris Causa) and Congressman of the 2nd District of Agusan del Sur, also delivered his message, underscoring the vital role of agriculture and soil health in sustaining food security, supporting livelihoods, and advancing rural development. He emphasized the importance of research-driven initiatives that promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve soil health, and translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions for local farming communities.
Meanwhile, Hon. Patricia Anne B. Plaza, Vice Governor of Agusan del Sur, shared her message with the delegates, further affirming the provinceโs engagement in the conference and its commitment to fostering connections among institutions and stakeholders.
The gathering also provided an opportunity to strengthen professional connections beyond formal conference sessions, reinforcing the value of cooperation in advancing research and development. Collaboration between the academic community and government institutions can help create pathways for research findings to inform policies, programs, and initiatives responsive to local needs.
The second day of ICMAR 2026 thus extended beyond paper presentations and methodological discussions. Through visits to scientific and cultural institutions and engagement with provincial leaders, delegates gained a broader perspective on the resources, heritage, and partnerships that shape Agusan del Surโreminding participants that meaningful research is strengthened when it remains connected to the realities and aspirations of the communities it serves.
