The Department of Education (DepEd) Regional Office I has scheduled the Basic Education Research Fund (BERF) Fiscal Year 2025 Proposal Defense on April 21–25, 2025, to be conducted virtually through Microsoft Teams.
The activity seeks to evaluate research proposals through oral presentation and identify studies worthy of endorsement for funding under the BERF. Final approval of selected proposals will rest with the Regional Research Committee (RRC), ensuring alignment with priority research areas and the department’s broader education agenda.
The online defense gathered key education stakeholders, including the RRC Chair and Co-Chair, members of the committee, research proponents, and their respective Senior Education Program Specialists for Planning and Research or Division Research Coordinators. This collaborative process emphasizes the importance of evidence-based decision-making in shaping educational policies and practices.
According to DepEd, the proposal defense is designed to strengthen the culture of research across schools and divisions by subjecting submitted studies to a rigorous evaluation process. Proponents will be given the opportunity to present the relevance, methodology, and expected outcomes of their proposed studies, while the RRC will provide feedback and recommendations to refine and improve research quality.
The BERF program continues to serve as a vital support mechanism for education stakeholders seeking to address pressing issues in the sector. By funding locally initiated studies, DepEd aims to generate research-based solutions that directly respond to the unique challenges of basic education in the regions.
Through this year’s proposal defense, the department reaffirms its commitment to promote meaningful and practical research that contributes to policy enhancement, improved teaching and learning practices, and the overall development of the Philippine education system.