The Governance Reform, Innovation, and Transformation Research Laboratories (GRIT Labs) was established at NCPAG in March 2024, with funding support from the GAA, to foster policy and public sector reform, innovation, and transformation through cross-disciplinary and partnership-based research with government agencies. It has seven (7) thematic areas that conduct research, capacity building, and information, education, and communication (IEC) activities. Working closely with government agencies, it translates insights into practical tools, policies, and programs that strengthen public sector performance and enable impactful change. GRIT Labs has conducted 4 training programs and workshops and trained a total of 207 participants – 136 from NGAs, 32 from LGUs, and 39 from the academe. NCPAG Dean, Dr. Kristoffer B. Berse serves as its Program Director.
SafeTravelPH Mobility Innovations, Inc., is a multidisciplinary non-government organization that operationalizes the concepts of open data and collaborative governance in promoting sustainable transport innovations. The organization commits itself to promoting open-data systems, integrating science-based policies, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders with the vision of having a sustainable and just transport system. SafeTravelPH is housed at UP NCPAG. The SafeTravelPH has conducted 4 training programs and workshops and trained a total of 207 participants
Project KaLakBay is a joint initiative between the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) aimed at promoting active transport (walking and cycling) in Metro Manila. The project supports sustainable mobility through a participatory and data-driven approach to spatial planning and decision-making. Key components include the development of a bicycle demand estimation model, deployment of monitoring systems, and capacity-building for DOTr personnel. The initiative also explores emerging transport modes like motorcycle taxis and electric tricycles. It is backed by Php 2.93 million in funding and is designed to align with the government’s vision for inclusive, safe, and efficient mobility in the post-pandemic era.
The UP NCPAG Governance Futures Lab (GFL), established in March 2022, is a research bank and think-tank advancing public innovation, scenario-building, futures thinking, and strategic foresight in governance. Since its founding, GFL has engaged over 5,000 participants through 52 capacity development programs, 39 conferences and forums, and 19 research projects. It collaborates with National Government Agencies (NGAs), Local Government Units (LGUs), State Colleges and Universities (SUCs), Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), private institutions, and professional organizations to shape anticipatory, innovative, and strategic programs for the future of public administration and governance in the Philippines. CLRG Director, Dr. Reginald G. Ugaddan serves as its Program Director.
