My internship experience with IMPACT R&D was highly IMPACTful, as it provided a strong balance of technical learning, personal growth, and real-world exposure. IMPACT R&D created an environment that encouraged independence, allowing me to strengthen my GIS skills, especially in using QGIS, while also building confidence in working without constant supervision. Being involved in meaningful projects like BAYWATCH made the experience even more fulfilling, as I was able to see how my academic knowledge could be applied to real community needs. Additionally, engaging with farmers and local stakeholders helped me develop a deeper sense of empathy, awareness, and appreciation for the people behind the data. Overall, the experience was both challenging and rewarding, contributing significantly to my growth as a student and as a future professional forester. 

Published on July 22, 2026

If you love solutions that matter, then you’ll love it here at IMPACT R&D. Right from the start, we were actively involved in projects such as BAYWATCH, an IoT-based flood monitoring and early warning system, and Digisaka Trace, a blockchain-based digital traceability platform for the rice supply chain. We coordinated closely with LGUs and local stakeholders, participated in research tasks, and collected baseline data using GIS for preprocessing and analysis. I felt a real sense of purpose working closer to the community. Our experience was made possible by the IMPACT R&D team, who are approachable and generous with their guidance. I gained valuable hands-on experience and a real sense of purpose, knowing I had the chance to contribute to solutions that leave an impact on the community. 

Published on July 22, 2026

My internship at IMPACT R&D became more than just a requirement–it became a journey of growth, discovery, and purpose. As a BS Forestry student, I had the opportunity to contribute to the Digisaka Trace Project by facilitating focus group discussions with various stakeholders, analyzing qualitative data, assisting in implementing Digisaka outreach activities, and participating in drone-assisted fieldwork and geotagging. I also worked on the BAYWATCH Project, where I applied GIS watershed characterization, research, and geospatial analysis to support flood monitoring initiatives. Beyond these projects. I explored emerging technologies such as Neuro-Symbolic AI for AANR applications through literature review and testing the pest disease identification of Digisaka Pandoy AI. What made this experience unforgettable was the welcoming environment and the incredible people of IMPACT R&D. This internship not only strengthened my technical and research skills but also inspired me to be someone who creates meaningful change for communities. 

Published on July 22, 2026

On our very first day at IMPACT R&D, we were already given the opportunity to lead focus group discussions with rice farmers, millers, traders, and local government units (LGUs). Through that experience, I realized that the stories behind every harvest are just as important as the data we collect. It opened my eyes to the real challenges faced by our rice farmers and made me more socially aware of the realities beyond the classroom.This is something that classes simply cannot offer. Reading about agriculture is one thing, but sitting down with farmers, listening to their experiences, and understanding their struggles firsthand is a completely different kind of learning. It is in those conversations that theories begin to make sense, and you realize who you are truly studying and working for. That is why I love my journey at IMPACT R&D. It is not just a place where your technical knowledge grows or where you develop professionally by working alongside inspiring supervisors and peers. It is a place that reminds you of your purpose. Every field visit, every conversation, and every project teaches you that the work we do is ultimately about serving people. Through initiatives like DigiSaka and BayWatch, you realize that creating an impact on communities also transforms you into a better researcher, a better professional, and, more importantly, a better person.

Published on July 22, 2026

My internship with IMPACT R&D has been a meaningful and enriching experience that allowed me to apply my knowledge as a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology major in Business Analytics student from Laguna University. Throughout my internship, I supported various research, administrative, and digital operations, including the Digisaka project, flood risk assessment initiatives, and the Research-as-a-Service (RaaS) program.

Through these activities, I gained practical experience in conducting research, managing databases, organizing stakeholder information, preparing communication materials, and supporting project coordination. These responsibilities strengthened my skills in data management, digital documentation, and research support while demonstrating how technology and business analytics can contribute to evidence-based decision-making.

What made this internship especially rewarding was the supportive and collaborative environment at IMPACT R&D. The guidance of the team and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research projects made this experience an important milestone in my academic and professional journey, and I am grateful for the knowledge and skills I gained along the way.

Published on July 21, 2026