L-Grant Philippines 2026: Leave a Nest Philippines Confers the Sustainable Agriculture Award
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Leave a Nest Grant Philippines 2026 (L-Grant PH 2026) has successfully concluded, with a promising Filipino researcher selected as the recipient of the PHP 50,000 research grant for sustainable and ecologically conscious agriculture.
This year’s implementation saw a total of 49 applications. The strong response reflects the growing interest of Filipino researchers in pursuing sustainability-driven solutions, with proposals spanning a diverse range of disciplines, institutions, and regions across the Philippines. Many of the research initiatives were deeply rooted in real-world challenges, particularly within local and rural communities, highlighting the relevance of the selected theme and the urgency of addressing these issues on the ground.
Following the screening process, shortlisted applicants were invited to participate in an online interview, where they were given the opportunity to further share their research, motivations, and vision. Through these conversations, it became evident that beyond the technical merit of their proposals, many researchers are driven by personal experiences and a strong sense of purpose, as well as a desire to contribute meaningfully to their respective communities.
After careful deliberation in collaboration with representatives from Leave a Nest Co., Ltd., the Sustainable Agriculture Award was conferred to Mr. Bryl Manigo, Associate Professor IV from the University of Southeastern Philippines. His research, titled “Bridging Sustainability and Farm Tourism in Durian Agroforestry in Davao de Oro, Philippines,” examines how sustainable practices in durian farming can be strengthened through agroforestry systems and farm tourism, offering a holistic perspective on agricultural development in Mindanao.
Mr. Manigo’s work stood out not only for its strong alignment with the program’s criteria, but also for its grounding in the realities of local farming systems and its potential to serve as a foundation for future collaboration. By seeking to understand existing practices and identifying areas for improvement, his research opens pathways for researchers, industry partners, and local stakeholders to come together and contribute toward a shared vision of sustainable agriculture. Moreover, this presents opportunities to strengthen regional engagement, particularly in Mindanao, by building partnerships with local institutions and stakeholders.
Beyond the selection of a single awardee, the L-Grant initiative continues to highlight the strength and potential of the Philippine research landscape. Many applicants demonstrated not only technical competence, but also resilience and resourcefulness in navigating the limitations they face, from funding constraints to access to facilities and equipment. The willingness of researchers and academic organizations to share opportunities and collaborate further reflects the sense of camaraderie within the research ecosystem. Moving forward, Leave a Nest Philippines aims to continue engaging with these researchers, identifying their needs, and creating opportunities for collaboration and connection within its network.
As L-Grant Philippines 2026 comes to a close, it marks not only the recognition of a promising researcher, but also a step forward in building a more connected and collaborative research ecosystem. Through initiatives such as L-Grant, Leave a Nest Philippines continues to create opportunities for researchers to turn their ideas into reality, thereby advancing science and technology for global happiness.
For inquiries regarding L-Grant Philippines 2026 or other Leave a Nest Philippines initiatives, please contact [email protected], with attention to Mr. Edriel Lee, Engr. Ronezza Delos Santos, or Mr. Jomer Ruego.