Batanes State College (BSC) hosted a Technical Panel Review for its ongoing “Utilization of the BSC Lab Testing Resources for Innovative Products (LABTrip)” project. The review, conducted by a delegation from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), took place from September 10-11. Its purpose was to validate project progress and ensure alignment with the DOST-PCIEERD-Grants-in-Aid (GIA) program’s Institution Development Program (IDP) objectives.

DOST-PCIEERD’s team was formally welcomed on September 10, 2025, by the BSC team, including Acting Vice President Dr. Angelita H. Vargas and RDET Director Leobert L. Banzali. During the technical panel review, Director Banzali presented the LABTrip project’s progress to the delegation. This was followed by a tour in the LABTrip facility, allowing the PCIEERD team to assess the laboratory resources firsthand.

On September 11, BSC faculty-researchers participated in a pre-engagement meeting with the Industrial Technology Development Division (ITDD) of DOST-PCIEERD. Faculty members from each department presented concept proposals and received guidance on the process of preparing and submitting research proposals for future projects. The Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Batanes also attended the meeting.

Findings from the technical panel review are undergoing consolidation and deliberation by DOST-PCIEERD. The official results and recommendations will be communicated to the college at a later date, providing feedback for the LABTrip project’s continued development and possible project extension.