The DA-Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) continued its efforts to improve dissemination of research outputs through preparation of scientific publications, as researchers and technical staff gathered for Phase II of the Science Communication Training held on November 27-28, 2025, at the DA-BSWM Function Room. The two-day activity sought to strengthen technical writing skills and support the development of clear, accurate, and publishable R&D outputs.

Led by the Soil and Water Resources Research Division (SWRRD) and attended by technical staff from all divisions and research centers, the training emphasized the importance of publishing research articles in peer-reviewed and reputable journals. In her message delivered on behalf of Director Gina Parde-Nilo, Dr. Karen S. Bautista, Chief SRS of SWRRD, pointed out the need for DA-BSWM staff to produce well-written scientific publications that contribute to the body of knowledge and innovations on soil and water management. 

Ms. Avril Adrianne D. Madrid, Assistant Professor from the University of Los Baños (UPLB)-College of Development Communication, served as the resource speaker for the first day of the training. She introduced participants to the fundamentals of scientific communication and the peer-review process, sharing practical ways to plan manuscripts, outline ideas, and write sections of journal articles. Workshops allowed participants to assess their research readiness using a structured checklist, making the session both interactive and purposeful.

On the second day, Dr. Kamla Zyra G. Lavadia, a science communication specialist, also from UPLB, talked about effective science communication in the context of agriculture. Participants presented their field reports and received constructive feedback on data visualization and effective presentation of research findings.  Participants took pre- and post-tests in addition to the workshop. Results showed a 23% increase in knowledge gained after the training, thus strengthening the DA-BSWM technical staff skills in scientific writing and sharing research more clearly and effectively.

The activity concluded with the awarding of certificates and tokens to the resource speakers. In her closing message on behalf of Assistant Director Denise A. Solano, Dr. Bautista thanked the participants for their active engagement and emphasized the value of continuous learning in the agency.

DA-BSWM is now preparing for Phase III of the Science Communication Training, which will be conducted next year. This next phase will focus on actual preparation and editing of research manuscripts and creating impactful research presentations, further strengthening the agency’s commitment to clear and accessible science communication.