USeP Extension Division

[𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗] The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) announces the conduct of the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗜𝗻-𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄, 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝗣𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗥𝗗𝗘) 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗝𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝟮𝟮, 𝟮𝟯, 𝟮𝟵, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟯𝟬, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲.

Anchored on the theme, "Driving Sustainable Futures through Transformative Research, Innovation, and Community Empowerment," the event serves as the University's premier platform for showcasing exemplary research and extension initiatives, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and recognizing innovative ideas that contribute to sustainable development and community advancement.

𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗦𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗗𝗨𝗟𝗘
Cluster 1:
Sustainable Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources - July 22, 2026
Policy Pitching Competition - July 22, 2026

Cluster 2:
Engineering, Information and Communication Technology - July 23, 2026
Poster Presentation Competition - July 23, 2026

Cluster 3:
Education, Arts, and Sciences - July 29, 2026

Cluster 4:
Business, Economics, and Governance - July 30, 2026

Cluster 5:
Extension Engagements - July 30, 2026

❗This event is exclusively for USeP researchers and faculty members.

Let us celebrate the University's continuing pursuit of research excellence, transformative innovation, and meaningful extension engagements that create lasting impact for communities and society.

𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐩 | 𝐔𝐒𝐞𝐏 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐬: 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔

As we welcome the Third Quarter of 2026, let us look back on the meaningful extension initiatives undertaken by the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) during the Second Quarter of 2026. Through the collective efforts of its faculty, staff, students, and partner communities, the University continues to translate knowledge into action by delivering impactful extension services that empower individuals and strengthen communities.

During the second quarter, USeP successfully implemented a wide range of activities across its flagship extension programs. These initiatives showcased the University's commitment to responsive, inclusive, and sustainable community engagement. The College of Business Administration conducted one (1) activity through its Single Mothers on the Move (SiMoM) Program, promoting entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities for single mothers.

The College of Education actively implemented nine (9) extension activities through three of its flagship programs: two (2) activities under the Rebuilding Opportunities for Survivors of Abuse (ROSA) Program, six (6) activities under the Children-at-Risk Education: Transformative Education for Children (CARE TEaCH) Program 101, and one (1) activity under the READ ALERT: Reading Advocacy on the Arising Level of Emerging Reading Threats Program.

Completing the quarter's highlights, the College of Agriculture and Related Sciences, through the Program of Agriculture on Agroforestry Technology Integrated Management Approach for Sustainable Natural Resources (PAg-ATIMAN), implemented eight extension activities focused on sustainable agriculture, agroforestry, livelihood enhancement, and environmental stewardship.

These accomplishments reflect the University's unwavering commitment to advancing its extension mandate by fostering innovation, empowering communities, and building resilient partnerships. As USeP enters the third quarter of 2026, it remains steadfast in its mission to create lasting, transformative impacts through extension programs that respond to the evolving needs of society.

Together, we continue to transform lives, strengthen communities, and advance sustainable development—one extension activity at a time.

[𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞] The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) officially releases the School Calendar for Academic Year 2026–2027.

The approved calendar provides the official schedule of academic activities, ensuring the orderly implementation of instructional programs and University operations. It includes significant dates for enrollment, commencement of classes, examinations, academic breaks, holidays, and other institutional activities.

The University encourages all members of the USeP community to take note of these important dates as we collectively pursue another productive and meaningful academic year anchored on excellence, innovation, and service.

Access the School Calendar by scanning the QR code in the poster or visiting this link: https://www.usep.edu.ph/calendar/

𝗨𝗦𝗲𝗣 𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗱𝗲 𝗢𝗿𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗮 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗼 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲
Strengthening communities through science, sustainability, and service, the USeP College of Agriculture and Related Sciences (CARS) successfully conducted an extension activity titled "Enhancing Sustainable Bamboo Production in Local Communities" on July 27, 2026, at the Barangay Hall of Barangay Anislagan, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro.
Implemented through the College's flagship extension program, the "Program of Agriculture on Agroforestry Technology Integrated Management Approach for Sustainable Natural Resources" (PAg-ATIMAN), under Project 2: "Unlocking Sustainability with Agroforestry and Green Technology" (USWAG), this initiative brought together members of People's Associations (PAs) and community organizations from the barangays of Anislagan and Cabacungan. The activity provided participants with practical knowledge on sustainable bamboo production, agroforestry technologies, and green innovations that support environmental conservation and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural communities.
The extension program was spearheaded by Dr. Nympha E. Branzuela, Dr. Rosalinda P. Tutor, and Forester Christopher V. Famor, with the support of College Extension Head Mr. Lauro Aguanta, in collaboration with the Barangays Anislagan, Barangay Cabacungan, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, and Assumption College of Nabunturan, Inc. The partnership underscored the importance of bringing academic expertise beyond the classroom and directly into communities where science-based solutions can create lasting impact.
In addition to fostering community engagement, the activity functioned as a dynamic learning environment for students. Master of Science in Environmental and Resource Management (MSERM) students integrated the extension activity into their Graduate Seminar. Meanwhile, Bachelor of Science in Forestry students, who are undertaking their Off-Semester 2025–2026 On-the-Job Training (OJT) and Field Practicum, gained valuable hands-on experience in community extension, environmental education, and sustainable resource management. Through collaboration with faculty experts and local stakeholders, students applied theoretical concepts to practical solutions, thereby strengthening the University’s commitment to experiential and service-oriented learning.
Interactive discussions highlighted bamboo's ecological and economic value, emphasizing its role in watershed protection, carbon sequestration, climate resilience, and rural enterprise development. Participants also exchanged local experiences and explored sustainable production techniques, propagation methods, and value-adding opportunities that could strengthen community-based bamboo industries while ensuring responsible stewardship of natural resources.
The initiative demonstrates USeP's strong commitment to developing inclusive and science-based extension programs that empower communities through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development. By combining instruction, research, and extension services, the University builds partnerships aimed at improving livelihoods while preserving the environment for future generations.
The activity significantly advanced several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting lifelong learning and building community capacity; SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by developing sustainable livelihoods; SDG 13 (Climate Action) by encouraging climate-resilient agroforestry practices; SDG 15 (Life on Land) through responsible forest management and ecosystem preservation; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening collaboration among the university, local government, academic institutions, and community organizations.
Beyond just an extension activity, this initiative illustrated how knowledge becomes more meaningful when shared with communities. As USeP continues to connect academic excellence with grassroots development, every bamboo plant, every skill transfer, and every partnership forged brings the University closer to its vision of creating empowered communities and a more sustainable future, one extension initiative at a time.

𝐒𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰.

The event primer for the launching of DOST-PCAARRD Youth Science Program in the Regions (Mindanao) is here!

This initiative aims to strengthen the participation and perspectives of senior high school students across Mindanao. By fostering a deep interest in science and technology, the program encourages groundbreaking innovation in the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) sector. Through immersive, hands-on learning experiences, it seeks to inspire the next generation to step up as future Science and Technology (S&T) leaders.

Implemented by the University of Southeastern Philippines College of Applied Economics (USeP CAEc) through the Socio-Economic Research and Data Analytics Center (SERDAC) in Mindanao, this program bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. It equips young Mindanaon researchers with essential data analytics skills, introduces them to evidence-based socio economic research, and empowers them to create data-driven solutions for the region's agricultural and environmental challenges. Together, we are nurturing young minds to cultivate a sustainable tomorrow.



-PCAARRD

[𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊] USeP launches the DOST-PCAARRD Youth Science Program in the Regions (Mindanao): Inspiring the next generation of Science and Innovation leaders.

The 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 - 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰𝘀 (𝗨𝗦𝗲𝗣 𝗖𝗔𝗘𝗰) through the 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗼-𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 (𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗖) 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗼, officially launched the 𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙋𝘾𝘼𝘼𝙍𝙍𝘿 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙎𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 (𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙤) through its Opening Ceremony held on 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟮𝟮, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, 𝗨𝗦𝗲𝗣 𝗢𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗿𝗼 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘂𝘀.

The event was graced by the University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., who delivered an inspiring message highlighting the vital role of young aspiring scientists in advancing sustainable development across Mindanao. The participants were also warmly welcomed by CAEc Associate Dean Dr. Ivee V. Fuerzas, who delivered the opening remarks.

This ceremony marked the beginning of Week 1 of the program, welcoming twenty (20) senior high school students from the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) Caraga Region Campus, Northern Mindanao Campus, and SOCCSKSARGEN Region Campus. These students are embarking on a meaningful journey
to explore science, technology, research, and innovation within the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) sector.

The activity brought together the 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁, 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵, 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰𝘀 (𝗖𝗔𝗘𝗰), 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗖 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗼, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗼 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲, 𝗔𝗾𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘂𝗺 (𝗦𝗠𝗔𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗖), highlighting a shared commitment to nurturing young minds and strengthening youth participation in science, technology, and innovation.

In his message, the University President emphasized that the nation’s future scientists, researchers, innovators, engineers, economists, environmental stewards, and agricultural leaders were among the students present in the program. He encouraged the participants to maximize this opportunity by learning from mentors, engaging with communities, asking meaningful questions, challenging existing ideas, and developing solutions that may contribute to future discoveries and innovations.

He further emphasized that the 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧-𝗣𝗖𝗔𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗗 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 represents more than an academic activity— it is an investment in empowering the next generation through meaningful exposure to research, innovation, and real-world applications of science and technology. Through this initiative, students are encouraged to cultivate curiosity, strengthen their passion for learning, and recognize their potential role in advancing sustainable development and community transformation.

The opening ceremony successfully laid the foundation for upcoming program activities, including mentoring sessions, research and development immersion, and collaborative learning experiences designed to provide students with deeper insights into STEM pathways and opportunities in the AANR sector.

The program is spearheaded by Atty. Karlo Martin C. Caramugan, EnP, together with the dedicated project team composed of Rizamae S. P***n (Project Staff), Clea Joyce B. Binang (Project Technical Aide VI), and Dave S. Roblis (Project Technical Aide V), whose commitment continues to make this initiative possible.

With the collective efforts of 𝗨𝗦𝗲𝗣, 𝗖𝗔𝗘𝗰, 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗖 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗼, 𝗦𝗠𝗔𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗖, 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧-𝗣𝗖𝗔𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗗, 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀, 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀, the program continues to foster a generation of young innovators and future leaders who will contribute to scientific advancement, sustainable development, and meaningful transformation in Mindanao and beyond.


-PCAARRD

[𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦!] USeP advances in 2026 THE Sustainability Impact Ratings, improves performance across key SDGs

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) strengthened its global sustainability standing after earning an improved overall placement in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings, formerly known as the THE Impact Rankings. The results reflect the University's continuing efforts to align its academic, research, extension, innovation, and governance initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Read here: https://www.usep.edu.ph/blog/2026/06/24/usep-advances-in-2026-the-sustainability-impact-ratings-improves-performance-across-key-sdgs/

In the 2026 edition, USeP secured an overall ranking of 1001–1500, an improvement from its 1501+ placement in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings. The advancement places the University among institutions worldwide recognized for their measurable contributions to sustainable development.

Among USeP's most notable gains were improvements in four of the five Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) submitted for evaluation. The University advanced in SDG 4 (Quality Education) from the 1001–1500 band to 801–1000, SDG 5 (Gender Equality) from 801–1000 to 601–800, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) from 1001+ to 801–1000, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) from 801–1000 to 601–800.

Meanwhile, SDG 1 (No Poverty) remained USeP's strongest-performing SDG, retaining its 401–600 ranking band for two consecutive years. The sustained performance underscores the University's continuing commitment to community development and initiatives that contribute to poverty reduction and improved quality of life for underserved sectors.

The 2026 results demonstrate USeP's growing impact in advancing sustainable development and affirm the collective efforts of its administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners in addressing global challenges through education, research, innovation, and community engagement.

To see the results, visit https://www.timeshighereducation.com/impactrankings.

𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 | The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Regional Statistical Services Office XI (RSSO XI), through PSA Davao del Sur Provincial Statistical Office (PSO), and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) formally strengthened their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on 01 June 2026 held at the Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) Conference Room, USeP Obrero Campus, Davao City.

Read more: https://tinyurl.com/PR-2026-06PSO24-017

𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗟𝗜𝗘𝗥 | PSA and USeP Formalize Partnership through MOA Signing

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Regional Statistical Services Office XI (RSSO XI), through PSA Davao del Sur Provincial Statistical Office (PSO), and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) formally strengthened their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held at the Research, Development and Extension (RDE) Conference Room, USeP Obrero Campus, Davao City.

Present during the MOA signing are officials and staff of PSA headed by Ms. Baby Jean P. Alid, Officer-in-Charge Regional Director (Chief Administrative Officer) of PSA RSSO XI and Ms. Adeline G. Batucan, Chief Statistical Specialist of PSA Davao del Sur as well as officials and staff of USeP led by, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., SUC President IV; Dr. Roger C. Montepio, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension; Dr. Roby V. Pagong, Extension Division Director; and Dr. Marnie Grace I. Sonico, College of Arts and Sciences Dean.

The partnership marks a significant milestone for both institutions, formally solidifying a longstanding collaboration that has existed for many years. Through this MOA, PSA and USeP reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing research, statistics, data-driven development, and extension services. The ceremonial signing not only celebrates years of cooperation but also opens new opportunities for stronger and more meaningful collaborations that will benefit communities.

[𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞] USeP, DOLE XI ink MOA for P2-M convergence techno-demo project benefiting farmers

The University of Southeastern Philippines formally entered into a partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment Region (DOLE) XI and partner organizations through a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing for the USeP-DOLE Convergence Techno-Demo Project held on May 11, 2026, at the IT Building, USeP Obrero Campus.

Read here: https://www.usep.edu.ph/.../usep-dole-xi-ink-moa-for-p2.../

The agreement was signed among USeP, DOLE XI, Basak Pangutusan Carp Irrigators Association (BPCIA) Inc., Awao Communal Irrigators Association (ACIA) Inc., and Mundo Engineering Works (MEW) to support the implementation of a technology-driven agricultural initiative centered on Zappify, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based pest management system developed by USeP.

Under the agreement, USeP serves as the licensor and holder of the proprietary rights to Zappify, a technology designed to improve agricultural productivity while reducing dependence on chemical pesticides. The University, through the Center for Research and Innovation in Industrial Technology (CRIIT), the official research center of the College of Technology, will assist in the implementation of the techno-demo project.

MEW, as the licensed fabricator and technology partner of the University, is authorized to manufacture, sell, and supply Zappify units to identified beneficiaries pursuant to a separate Technology Licensing Agreement.

Meanwhile, DOLE XI, through its DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), committed support for the initiative as a technology-driven convergence project aimed at uplifting rural farming communities. The agency allocated Php2 million for the project and designated the BPCIA as its accredited co-partner and financial conduit for the disbursement and management of project funds. BPCIA and the ACIA were identified as project cooperators and direct beneficiaries.

In his message, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales Jr. emphasized that the partnership reflects what can be achieved when institutions, communities, and development partners work together through research, innovation, and public service.

He shared that the project embodies the University’s vision of becoming a premier research university transforming communities in the ASEAN, noting that Zappify demonstrates how research can move from laboratories to farming communities and create opportunities that uplift farmers while protecting the environment.

Dr. Gabales also expressed gratitude to DOLE XI for its Php2-million funding support and acknowledged the participation of the partner irrigators’ associations for embracing innovative and sustainable farming practices. He likewise recognized Mundo Engineering Works for helping bring the technology closer to farming communities.

DOLE XI Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy said the Zappify model should not only serve Region XI but could also become a model for national application. Meanwhile, Lemuel O. Alvior expressed gratitude to the institutions involved and assured partners of their commitment to the success of the project.

Also present during the activity were Vice President for Planning and Quality Assurance Dr. Tamara Cher R. Mercado; Zappify Project Team led by Asst. Prof. Keno A. Mendoza; delivery unit heads and staff under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Extension; faculty and staff of the College of Technology led by Acting Dean Dr. Filmann T. Simpao; and representatives from partner agencies and institutions.

The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger through sustainable agricultural productivity, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through technology-driven solutions and innovation, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening collaboration among government agencies, academic institutions, private partners, and farming communities.