QC opens applications for Betty Go-Belmonte research grants
By Trixee Rosel
QC Meetings, Incentives, Conference & Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.) Center (Photo courtesy of the Quezon City government)
The Quezon City government has opened applications for the first batch of fellows under the Betty Go-Belmonte Research Grants Program to support evidence-based research that will help shape public policy and advance the city's sustainable development.
Mayor Joy Belmonte said the program encourages students, scholars, and academic professionals to undertake research that addresses community needs, improves public services, and develops solutions that may benefit not only Quezon City but also communities across the country.
Named after the late journalist and newspaper publisher Betty Go-Belmonte, the program aims to produce studies and practical recommendations that can help guide policymaking and support the city's development.
The program is open to Filipino undergraduate and postgraduate students who are residents of Quezon City and/or enrolled in higher education institutions in the city.
Filipino academic professionals teaching or serving as faculty members in Quezon City-based higher education institutions may also apply regardless of their place of residence.
Applications may be submitted individually or as a team, provided the principal proponent or designated project leader meets the eligibility requirements.
Research proposals must directly contribute to Quezon City's development or align with the city government's 14-point agenda while generating actionable recommendations or research outputs that can be applied in the city.
Priority will be given to studies that examine the root causes of issues or support the implementation and improvement of key city initiatives in human and social services, economic development, environment and climate change, infrastructure, and institutional development.
Selected fellows may receive research grants of up to ₱100,000, along with additional assistance of up to ₱20,000 for each eligible support category, including books and research materials, transportation expenses, and the printing and reproduction of research papers, subject to program guidelines.
With prior authorization, fellows may also be granted access to relevant city government offices, officials, personnel, and barangays to facilitate their research.
The city government may also assist in arranging opportunities for fellows to present their completed studies in public forums.
Belmonte urged Quezon City residents and members of the academic community to participate in the program, saying their research could deepen understanding of the city's challenges, strengthen government programs, and help develop solutions that may also benefit other communities nationwide.
Interested applicants may submit their requirements through the Betty Go-Belmonte Research Grants module on the QC e-Services Portal until Aug. 31, 2026. The evaluation of proposals will begin on Sept. 1, 2026.
The Betty Go-Belmonte Research Grants Program was established through City Ordinance No. SP-3174, Series of 2023, principally authored by Majority Floor Leader Councilor Aly Medalla.