Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) officially launched the PIVOT Research Center on July 20, 2026, at the HCCCI Library, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to research excellence, innovation, and knowledge creation. The event gathered representatives from government agencies, industry partners, institutional collaborators, faculty members, researchers, administrators, and other stakeholders, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that formalized strategic partnerships to strengthen the institution’s research ecosystem through collaboration and innovation.

Established as a strategic institutional initiative, the PIVOT Research Center is envisioned as a collaborative hub that cultivates a vibrant culture of interdisciplinary research, innovation, and evidence-based knowledge generation. The center aims to empower faculty members, students, researchers, and partner organizations to pursue research that addresses emerging societal challenges while translating scholarly outputs into meaningful programs, policies, technologies, and community-responsive initiatives. Through strengthened partnerships, the center also seeks to expand opportunities for research capacity building, innovation, and knowledge exchange across the academic, government, and industry sectors.

Kimberly Jean P. Surmion-Tillaman, RPH, MSPH, Program Head of the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, formally introduced the PIVOT Research Center by presenting its vision, objectives, and strategic direction. She emphasized the center’s role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening HCCCI’s research culture, and supporting initiatives that generate meaningful academic, scientific, and societal impact through research and innovation. The initiative was further reinforced through the leadership and commitment of Marlon L. Viejo, Director of the Research and Extension Office, whose efforts in championing research development and institutional collaboration continue to strengthen HCCCI’s pursuit of research excellence and innovation.

Supporting the initiative, Gisselle O. Siladan, Provincial Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – South Cotabato, underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships among government agencies, educational institutions, and industry in advancing science, technology, and innovation. Likewise, Neil Del Rosario, Chief Operating Officer of Gensan Feedmill Corporation, one of the PIVOT Research Center’s industry partners, highlighted the value of industry-academe collaboration in developing research-driven solutions, accelerating innovation, and creating opportunities that generate mutual benefits for both the education sector and industry.

A highlight of the program was the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing, which formalized the commitment of HCCCI and its partner organizations to collaborate in advancing research, innovation, capacity building, and knowledge exchange through the PIVOT Research Center. The agreement laid the foundation for future interdisciplinary research initiatives, collaborative projects, and strategic partnerships that respond to contemporary societal and industry needs.

The establishment of the PIVOT Research Center likewise advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting research excellence, innovation, and lifelong learning; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, by strengthening scientific research, innovation ecosystems, and technology-driven development; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering meaningful collaboration among educational institutions, government agencies, industry partners, and other stakeholders committed to sustainable development.

Beyond strengthening HCCCI’s research infrastructure, the PIVOT Research Center creates opportunities for meaningful collaboration that benefits institutions, professionals, industries, and communities through evidence-informed solutions. By encouraging research that responds to pressing societal concerns, the center contributes to informed decision-making, innovation-driven development, technology transfer, and the continuous exchange of knowledge among researchers, practitioners, and partner organizations. Its collaborative approach ensures that research outcomes extend beyond academic publications to generate practical solutions and lasting impact for society.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Erwin M. Faller, Academic Director of HCCCI, expressed his gratitude to all partner institutions and stakeholders for their unwavering support in establishing the PIVOT Research Center. He emphasized that the center represents more than a new institutional initiative—it embodies a shared commitment to advancing research excellence, nurturing innovation, strengthening partnerships, and empowering researchers to create meaningful contributions that improve lives and inspire future generations.

Through the launch of the PIVOT Research Center, Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. further strengthened its role as a leading advocate of research, innovation, and collaborative knowledge creation. By investing in research excellence and cultivating strong partnerships across academia, government, and industry, the institution continues to drive transformative initiatives that advance education, generate evidence-based solutions, and create lasting value for communities, industries, and future generations.