UPCIDS leads the Policy Paper Writing Workshop in Baguio
In a concerted effort to enhance the landscape of policy research and advocacy in the Philippines, the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UPCIDS) partnered with UP Baguio’s Cordillera Studies Center (CSC) to host a pivotal “Writing Policy Studies” workshop on June 13, 2025. The event, a crucial initiative for researchers, was designed not only to familiarize them with the intricacies of policy paper writing but also to serve as a vital pre-submission workshop for UP CIDS Local and Regional Studies Network Baguio program researchers eyeing publication in the esteemed Philippine Journal of Public Policy (PJPP).
The workshop commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Leah E. Abayao, Director of the Cordillera Studies Center, who greeted participants hailing from various regions, including Abra, Benguet, and Mountain Province. The objectives of the program were clearly articulated, aiming to equip attendees with a robust skill set: sharpening their ability to structure policy journal articles and briefs , mastering effective techniques for translating complex research into accessible and persuasive language for policymakers , understanding the nuances of tailoring written work for diverse policy audiences , and exploring strategies to maximize the impact of their research on policy formulation and implementation.
Leading the charge as the primary resource person was UPCIDS Executive Director Rosalie Arcala Hall. Her lecture delved into the fundamental composition of a policy paper, providing a comprehensive overview. Dr. Hall meticulously discussed the distinct procedures and different types of policy papers associated with UPCIDS, clearly differentiating them from other formats. Complementing her expertise, Honeylet Alerta, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the PJPP, offered invaluable insights by sharing practical tips on how to effectively address recurring issues often encountered in manuscripts submitted to PJPP and other UPCIDS non-peer-reviewed publications.
The afternoon session was a dynamic and interactive experience, strategically divided into two distinct breakout groups. One group had the opportunity to engage in a stimulating lecture-discussion titled “Doing Policy Research & Publishing with PIDS.” This session was expertly led by Ms. Melinda Quiñones, the Research Information Department Manager and SERP-P Director at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) , offering participants a glimpse into broader research opportunities. Simultaneously, the second group, spearheaded by UPCIDS, engaged in a hands-on “Workshop: Diagnostic Activity of the Journal Articles and Drafting of Policy Briefs”. This practical session was designed to critically assess participants’ current research papers and provide targeted guidance on transforming intricate policy research findings into accessible and persuasive language for policymakers.
This impactful initiative stands as a testament to the University of the Philippines’ commitment to its Flagship Program Number 5: Public Service for the Common Good. This program champions active and collaborative partnerships with State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), Local Government Units (LGUs), the Private Sector, and Civil Society, fostering a collective approach to societal advancement. Beyond its immediate educational benefits, the workshop also marked a significant start-up activity for CSC’s Public Service Program for 2025-2026 and was a proud part of CSC’s 45th founding anniversary celebrations in June 2025. The event primarily targeted UP Baguio Faculty, particularly LRSN grantees and research staff, as well as faculty from partner universities such as Mountain Province State University, University of Abra, and Don Mariano Marcos State University. Looking ahead, the CSC has announced plans to organize a series of public seminars and training sessions in the coming months, promising continued opportunities for knowledge sharing and skill development.