Iloilo City, Philippines – A significant partnership aimed at advancing research, innovation, and public health has been formalized with the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) and a collaborative research agreement between the University of San Agustin (USA), the Department of Science and Technology Region VI (DOST VI), and Al Di Foods Incorporated on April 22, 2025 at the KNIF₂E Facility. The ceremonial signing event marked the launch of a project entitled “Formulation of Turmeric Capsule with High Value Availability for Optimized Therapeutic Efficacy”, with the aim of enhancing the bioavailability of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric known for its antioxidant properties but is inefficiently absorbed through the stomach. USA’s Center for Chemical Biology and Biotechnology (C2B2) Director and turmeric project leader Dr. Doralyn S. Dalisay explained that the team will combine turmeric with another natural ingredient that enhances the absorption of curcumin and other health enhancing components of turmeric, thereby ensuring maximum therapeutic benefits.
The MOA between USA and DOST VI underscores a shared commitment to advancing research and development (R&D) in the region, particularly in health and wellness. Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, CESO II, Regional Director of DOST VI, emphasized the importance of the “triple helix model”—where government, industry, and academia collaborate—to drive socioeconomic progress. Engr. Gelonga stressed that supporting micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) businesses like Al Di Foods is crucial for national financial sustainability and job creation. The research team envisions that a scientifically validated, market-ready turmeric capsule will be available within a year.
Rev. Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, OSA, President of USA, highlighted the university’s dedication to R&D as a core pillar of its academic mission. He emphasized that partnerships like this exemplify USA’s role in transforming research into tangible solutions for societal progress. Meanwhile, Dr. Jonel P. Saludes, Vice President for Research and Global Relations at USA, reinforced the importance of industry-academia collaboration from the project’s conceptual stage, proposal writing, and all the way to project implementation and technology transfer. Citing USA’s successful past partnerships with MSMEs like Herbanext Laboratories, Maridan Industries, and Pharma GalenX as well as with food industry giant Del Monte Philippines Inc., he expressed optimism that this venture would yield another science-backed commercial product that benefits Filipinos.
Ms. Ma. Antonia Fatima Diosaban, President of Al Di Foods, expressed gratitude for DOST’s support since the company’s founding in 2015. She affirmed Al Di Foods’ commitment to science-based innovations that elevate agricultural commodities into health-enhancing products, ultimately supporting farmers and consumers alike.
The tripartite partnership reflects a unified effort to bridge research, industry, and public welfare. By combining USA’s scientific expertise, DOST VI’s funding and policy support, and Al Di Foods’ market-driven approach, the project aims to deliver a breakthrough functional food product that promotes Filipino health and economic growth.
