The DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute’s (DOST-FPRDI) researchers strengthened their technical writing skills in a four-day workshop held last January 12-15, 2026.
The iSPEAK Science: Technical Writing for Publications provided the participants with a comprehensive and practical understanding of the technical writing and publishing process. The sessions focused not only on grammar and language, but also on enhancing the clarity, structure, and scientific argumentation of manuscripts. This allowed the participants to refine their technical papers.
In his welcome message, DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon noted that publishing in internationally reviewed journals reflects rigorous, high-quality research that has undergone a strict review process.
“Such publications enhance credibility, increase the impact of work, and are also crucial for career advancement. Through this 4-day workshop, we aim to strengthen our ability to craft papers intended for submission to ISI-indexed journals,” noted Cabangon.
During the workshop, DOST-FPRDI researchers delved into the fundamentals of scientific writing, laying the foundation for a sound paper, and techniques for effective data visualization.
Discussions included writing a conclusion and abstract, crafting a compelling title, selecting appropriate keywords, preparing acknowledgements, and understanding authorship for journal articles.
It also covered the methodology, results, and discussion sections to help the researchers better organize the manuscripts. The workshop also tackled the principles of responding to reviewers’ comments after submission.
Now in its second year, iSPEAK Science is a series of training designed to equip staff with various communication skills.
Technical Services Division Chief Maria Cielito G. Siladan stressed the importance of ensuring that every peso of public funds is used effectively and responsibly.
“Hangad ko na sumulat tayo nang may puso, at patuloy nating hanapin ang saysay at layunin ng bawat salitang isinusulat natin, at tandaan na may mga taong umaasa sa kaalamang ating ibinabahagi,” she said.
As a leading R&D institution in sustainable forest products use, DOST-FPRDI believes in investing in science communication skills, and in empowering its people professionally so that they can contribute meaningfully to national innovation. ### (Angelique B. Evangelista, 22 January 2026)
Twenty-four researchers and technology transfer specialists participated in the second iSPEAK Science workshop led by the TSD- Promotion and Communication Section.
The four-day technical writing workshop was facilitated by Dr. Lily Ann D. Lando, an experienced editor with over a decade in scientific publishing.
DOST-FPRDI Director Dr. Rico J. Cabangon challenges staff to surpass last year’s publication output, assuring them of the Institute’s support.
