The Researcher’s Notebook: Stories of dedication, innovation, impact
By Niña Jonalyn Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — “These may be small numbers [for now], but these are meaningful steps toward our endeavor in advancing basic education in Caraga one point at a time.”
These words from a Caraganon educator resonated deeply with the audience during the presentation of research success stories at the 2025 Researcher’s Notebook held on December 9 in the city.
Launched in 2017 by Dr. Caroline G. Dultra, education program supervisor of the Policy, Planning, and Research Division (PPRD) of DepEd Caraga, the Researcher’s Notebook highlights the achievements of teachers, school principals, and education leaders whose studies have made tangible impacts in schools and communities.
The initiative documents and celebrates projects funded through the Basic Education Research Fund (BERF), established under DepEd Order No. 43, s. 2015, which provides financial support for research projects aimed at improving policies, programs, and practices in Philippine basic education.
“I came up with this idea to develop a positive attitude among our DepEd Caraga researchers. Through this, we are also able to document the success and impact of the research funded by DepEd’s BERF,” said Dultra.
As a researcher herself, Dultra takes pride in bringing fellow scholars out from behind their desks and into the spotlight—an opportunity she believes they truly deserve.
The event brought together DepEd’s researchers from all over the region together with their Schools Division Superintendents (SDSs) and Assistant Schools Division Superintendents (ASDSs) in a show of solidarity and support.
Dr. Violeta C. Nuñez, chief education program supervisor of the DepEd Caraga PPRD officially commenced the activity stressing how the Researcher’s Notebook is not just a mere activity to be complied with, rather, it is a tangible testament that research is a powerful driver of innovation, improvement, and transformative change in schools and communities.
“This gathering allows us to shine a light on the dedication behind each research study: the long nights of data gathering, the careful analysis, the conversations with learners and teachers, and the courage to ask difficult questions in the pursuit of solutions. These stories matter because they bring to life the connection between research and real change on the ground,” conveyed Nuñez as she lauded the efforts of all the Caraganon researchers.
She further encouraged educators to embrace research as a tool for progress. “May the shared stories today inspire more educators to embark on research endeavors. Let today strengthen our commitment to building a more research-engaged DepEd Caraga, where evidence guides action and innovation fuels continuous progress.”
Documentaries showcased how research addressed pressing challenges in schools—from streamlining school forms through Excel-based templates to introducing innovative teaching approaches. These researchers proved how curiosity can turn an idea into an answer.
There were also educators who made learning not just convenient for students, but enjoyable, as well. Joey S. Patalinghug, teacher III from the Butuan City division utilized the common game of chess as a strategic tool in teaching Mathematics to his students. While a group of educators from Tandag City, namely, Adams Wilhelm June M. Bohol, Chalymie Q. Quico, and Hilda C. Abiera, improved the reading habits of their students through their ‘TSIAW’ approach which requires students to read ‘Two Stories in a Week.’
Beyond the success stories, competitions honored outstanding research and documentary presentations. Plaques of Recognition were awarded to the winners with the following distinctions:
Most Inspiring Research Journey
1st : Surigao del Norte
2nd : Bislig City
3rd : Surigao del Sur
Best Research Impact Story
1st : Surigao del Norte
2nd : Bislig City
3rd : Surigao del Sur
Best Visual Communication in Research Success Story Presentation
1st : Bislig City
2nd : Surigao del Norte
3rd : Butuan City
Most Creative Audio Visual Presentation
1st : Surigao del Norte
2nd : Bislig City
3rd : Butuan City
Best Research Success Story Presenter
1st : Surigao del Norte
2nd : Bislig City
3rd : Agusan del Sur
As the curtains fell on the 2025 Researcher’s Notebook, what lingered was not only the applause but the quiet conviction that every study, every sleepless night, and every spark of curiosity carries the power to transform lives. In the hands of Caraganon educators, research is no longer confined to papers and presentations—it is a living force that shapes classrooms, nurtures learners, and builds communities of hope. Their stories remind us that progress begins with questions, and that the courage to seek answers is, in itself, an act of service to the future. (NJGD/PIA Caraga)
