Sustainable research culture is impetus for the realization of educational institution's mission and vision. Academic leaders such as president, dean, and research director must act into power and think of strategy and programs so that their faculty members will be inspired to conduct research and publication. This study aims to discover the best practices of the three (3) higher education institutions in the management of research in downtown universities in Metro Manila, Philippines. Several best practices are shared during one-on-one interviews with the president, deans, research directors, and Focus Group Discussion with faculty members in respective research settings. This research article intends to motivate higher education institutions enhance and sustain their research culture by adopting and learning from the said best practices.