Center for Integrative and Development Studies

History

University of the Philippines System President Edgardo J. Angara envisioned the University of the Philippines System Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP-CIDS) in the early 1980's as a policy research unit that will harness the multidisciplinary expertise of UP toward the solution of the nation's critical problems.

The UP President's Committee for the Establishment of a Strategic Areas Studies Unit submitted its recommendations as regards the creation of a university-based think-tank. On June 13, 1985, the UP UP Board of Regents (UP Board of Regents) approved the establishment of the University Center for Strategic and Development Studies (UCSDS). This was soon changed to the University Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UCIDS) "in order to reflect the center's primary objectives and goals."

In the UP President's Executive Order (EO) dated September 24, 1985, the objectives and functions of the Center were stated:

• Develop, organize and manage research issues of national significance, which, because of their importance and inherent complexity require an integrative and collaborative approach and research methodologies and skills of greater sophistication;
• Encourage and support research and study on these issues undertaken by various units of the University and individual scholars;
• Secure funding from public and private persons and agencies; and
• Ensure that the research outputs and recommendations of the Center are published and openly disseminated.

In May 1993, UP-CIDS identified a three-pronged strategy to achieve its objectives. These are:

• Set a track record that will enhance the reputation of UP-CIDS and make it visible to recognized scholars;
• Convene core Fellows to develop research agenda and programs in policy areas; and
• Establish linkages with other sectors and policy-makers through collaborative research, discussion forums and research dissemination activities.

In its early years, the UP-CIDS was under the Office of the UP President to facilitate its evolution into a systemwide intellectual arm of the university as well as enhance its chances of obtaining funds. In 2001, the direct responsibility for the center was devolved to the Office of Vice President for Academic Affairs in order to enhance the links of the center with other academic units and programs.

Past Executive Directors

• Celia T. Adriano
• Elizabeth Aguiling-Pangalangan
• Cynthia Rose Bautista

Programs

• Archipelagic and Ocean Policy Studies
• Asia Pacific Studies/Foreign Policy Studies
• Biodiversity Conservation
• Disaster and Flood Control Studies
• Education Research
• Emerging World Environment
• Environmental Health & Development
• Mindanao Studies/History & Culture
• Peace, Democratization and Human Rights

Directory:

929-35-40 / 435-92-83