USeP Extension Division

[𝗜𝗖𝗬𝗠𝗜] The USeP College of Agriculture and Related Sciences reinforced its commitment to sustainable agriculture through a two-day extension event titled “Field Day, Technology Training, and Clinic,” held on November 24–25, 2025, at the USeP TMC, Mabini Unit Physical Education and Cultural Center. Organized by fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Agriculture students under Ms. Cristy F. Owanes for the course Agri 4112: Beneficial Arthropods and Microorganisms, the event aimed to bridge academic research with practical farming needs through sustainable crop and animal production technologies.

Centered on the theme “Utilizing Beneficial Organisms for Sustainable Farming and Raising Awareness,” the activity gathered local farmers from Sitio Bunlas, members of the Asosasyon sa mga Organikong Mag-uuma sa Sitio Bunlas (ASORMASIBU), and representatives from the United Farmers Association of Mabini. The program opened with messages from key University officials, including the BSA Program Head, Dr. Dernie T. Olguera, and the College Extension Head, Mr. Lauro Roy Aguanta, who emphasized the importance of research-driven community engagement.

Farmers later participated in field visits to student-managed technology testing sites, where they observed the application of sustainable innovations under real farm conditions. These visits showcased student-developed practices addressing crop protection challenges, the utilization of beneficial organisms, and improved farm management techniques.

A techno-clinic also formed a major part of the event, offering free expert consultations to participating farmers. The sessions were facilitated by Dr. James Jade Lasquites (Soil Science), Mr. Lauro Roy Aguanta (Agricultural Extension), Ms. Catherine C. Quisado (Entomology), and Mr. Jonash A. Bunda (Animal Science). Farmers received science-based advice on soil concerns, pest issues, and livestock management tailored to their specific needs.

The activity was further highlighted by the presence of the College Associate Dean, Dr. Larry V. Aceres, who commended the students and faculty for their commitment to community-centered agricultural development. He underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships with local farmers and sustaining research-driven initiatives that support resilient and sustainable farming systems.

Ultimately, the two-day Field Day reaffirmed CARS’ dedication to empowering farmers through accessible, research-based technologies and showcased the capability of future agriculturists to become socially responsive and innovative leaders in the agricultural sector.

[𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄] On November 28, 2025, the 56th Infantry (TATAG) Battalion, 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, made a courtesy exit call to the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP). During the visit, the University awarded the 56th IB a Plaque of Recognition for its exemplary contributions, while the Battalion also presented a Plaque of Recognition to the University for its exemplary and invaluable support.

The courtesy call was attended by MAJ Jodel L Balanban (INF) PA and CPT Al-Jame S Bin Abdullah (INF) PA of the 56th IB, along with University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr.; Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Dr. Roger C. Montepio; Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jeneifer C. Nueva; Extension Division Director and LIFE Project 3 Leader Dr. Roby V. Pagong; College of Information and Computing (CIC) Dean Dr. Cristina E. Dumdumaya; 𝘏𝘪 𝘛𝘦𝘬 𝘕𝘢 𝘚𝘪 𝘐𝘗 Program Leader Dr. Ivy Kim D. Machica and Project Leader Ms. Cheryl R. Amante; and personnel from the CIC and Extension Division.

On December 2, 2025, the 56th IB conducted an exit conference and turnover of responsibilities to the receiving unit and partner stakeholders in Sto. Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte. USeP was awarded with a Certificate of Appreciation for its exemplary and invaluable support to the Battalion, which was received by Dr. Pagong; Dr. Machica; LIFE Project 3 Staff Level 2 Engr. Ruel F. Tuyogon; and Site Facilitators Mr. William Mar P. Sarmiento and Mr. Hanner Rhed T. Rosas.

The 60th Infantry Battalion was also introduced as the succeeding unit tasked with continuing the initiatives started by the 56th IB and supporting the University’s extension programs and projects for the benefit of the Talaingod community until their completion.

[𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒] The University is pleased to be recognized as a Finalist for the Best Government Non-Infrastructure Project in the CY 2024 Search for Project Implementation and Monitoring Excellence in Davao Region (DavPrIME) through its KABULIG (Kalambuan sa BACASAFIA on UPSCALING Livelihood Integrated Growth) Program. The award was presented on December 3, 2025, at the Sotogrande Hotel, Maa, Davao City.

From 2022 to 2024, the KABULIG Program of the College of Agriculture and Related Sciences and the College of Engineering has played a pivotal role in empowering the Kalambuan sa Batinao Cabacungan Sto. Niño Farmers Irrigators Association, Inc. (BACASAFIA) in partnership with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). The program has significantly strengthened farmers’ capacity for self-reliance in addressing agricultural challenges, with one of its major accomplishments being the advancement of greenhouse production.

The dedicated efforts of the Extension Division and the Program Team in carrying out the initiative and in successfully preparing and submitting the program made this recognition possible.

[𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒] The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) College of Development Management (CDM) and the 11th Regional Community Defense Group (11RCDG) of the Philippine Army solidified their commitment to strengthening regional peace and security through a three-part event held on November 25, 2025, at the CDM Gymnasium in the USeP Mintal Campus, Davao City. The day commenced with the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Partnership Agreement (MOPA), formalizing a three-year project collaboration between the two institutions. COL REANDREW P. RUBIO INF (GSC) PA, Director of the 1105th Community Defense Center, 11RCDG, RESCOM, PA, acknowledged the guests and participants, followed by a presentation of obligations from both parties by the Program Leader Ms. Richelle C. Pacoy. Dr. Roger C. Montepio, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension, representing University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales Jr.; and COL CALIXTO D. CADANO JR., Group Commander of 11RCDG, RESCOM, PA, delivered messages underscoring the significance of academe-military collaboration. COL ROMEO N. BAUTISTA III, Assistant Division Commander for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, also gave a congratulatory message, followed by the awarding of certificates and tokens, as well as the presentation of awards for the RAATI 2025 performance. USeP Extension Division Director Dr. Roby V. Pagong and Mintal Campus Dean Dr. Aristeo C. Salapa were also present during the ceremony.

The second segment featured a comprehensive briefing on the Security Innovation and Knowledge Laboratory for Reserve Force Development (SIKLab) initiative. Dr. Rec E. Eguia presented the “Future-Ready Reservists 2040: Strategic Foresight for Reserve Force Development in the Davao Region” project, which aims to develop a strategic foresight framework that anticipates emerging security challenges while leveraging demographic and technological opportunities. The project covers futures literacy and anticipatory governance on security, mapping of 21st-century security skills and competencies, and collaborative foresight exercises for Davao regional security. Ms. Pacoy introduced the composition of the SIKLab Team.

The final session transitioned into a Resource Mobilization Strategy Workshop themed “Mobilizing Partnerships, Resources, and Innovation for a Future-Ready Reserve Force.” Participants engaged in working sessions covering resource needs and budgeting matrices, funding source mapping and partnership models, and proposal pitching drafts, culminating in draft commitments and action points for multi-sector collaboration.

The USeP-11RCDG collaboration positions the University as a critical engine of national security innovation, serving as a generator of knowledge, a catalyst of innovation ecosystems, and a platform for cross-sector collaboration. Under the agreement, 11RCDG commits to engaging with USeP’s programs for security-related trainings, inviting faculty as resource persons, facilitating Reserve Force enlistment among USeP personnel, and providing logistical support, while USeP will organize lectures and seminars for Army personnel and reservists and support advocacy initiatives for the Reserve Force and ROTC Program in the Davao Region. The SIKLab project further envisions building a Regional Security Innovation Corridor that will include scoping studies on 21st-century security skills, an outcome-based education framework for reserve force development, and, eventually, a Davao Regional Security Innovation Hub and Roadmap aligned with the AFP Modernization Roadmap and Ambisyon Natin 2040.

[𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃] 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐔𝐒𝐞𝐏 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏 𝐀𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭

The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Center for Asian Mission for the Poor Asia (CAMP Asia) on October 2, 2025, at USeP Mintal Campus, marking the beginning of a collaborative poverty alleviation project.

The MoA formalizes the partnership between USeP and CAMP Asia to jointly implement initiatives that expand educational opportunities and enhance academic performance among Indigenous Peoples (IPs). Under the agreement, CAMP Asia will take the lead in project ex*****on, by providing financial, human, and material resources, managing logistics, and submitting regular progress reports, while USeP will offer expert advisory support, contribute to strategic planning, and provide technical feedback. Both parties will collaborate in planning activities, sharing resources, co-developing IP-focused curricula, and ensuring proper data attribution and authorship.

The signing ceremony was attended by key University officials, including University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Dr. Roger C. Montepio, Extension Division Director Dr. Roby V. Pagong, and College of Development Management Dean Dr. Aristeo C. Salapa. They shared messages that highlighted the significance of the partnership.

Representing CAMP Asia were President Rev. Chulyong Lee, who shared a heartfelt message about how this collaboration aligns with his personal mission to create meaningful change in communities, and Country Director Buyong Cho, who co-signed the agreement as a witness.

The MoA signing also signaled the beginning of a long-term commitment to future engagements and joint efforts. The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 2: Zero Hunger and Goal 4: Quality Education, emphasizing the shared vision of both institutions to uplift marginalized communities through inclusive education and sustainable development.

[𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗟𝗬 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗗𝗘𝗗] 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗣𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱: “𝗣𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 – 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁”

In solidarity with the global observance of World Psoriasis Day, the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) School of Medicine spearheaded this year’s celebration as part of its Extension Activity under the program “Building a Better Future: A Health Extension Program for Stronger Communities – Serbisyong Organisado, Malusog, at Matatag na Bukas Areglado (SOMMBA)”.

The USeP School of Medicine joined hands with the Psoriasis Foundation of the Philippines (PFPI), the DRMC Dermatology Department, and the Philippine Dermatological Society – Southern Philippines Chapter to champion awareness, support, and care for patients living with psoriatic disease.

Held on October 3, 2025, at Robinsons Mall, Tagum City, the event gathered patients, families, caregivers, and health professionals for a meaningful day of learning and community. The program featured opening remarks from Dr. Victoria P. Guillano, President of PFPI, Chair of the DRMC Dermatology Department, and Dean of the USeP School of Medicine, followed by messages of support from Dr. Arnel Florendo (City Health Officer), Dr. Bryan O. Dalid (DRMC Medical Center Chief), and Dr. Tess Custodio (PDS-SPC President). A lay forum led by Dr. Barbara Jane D. Panopio (IM–Rheumatologist) and Dr. Precy Gem S. Calamba (IM–Medical Nutrition Specialist) provided insights on psoriatic disease and its comorbidities. The event also included patient and caregiver testimonies, free consultations, screenings, wellness booths, and a medical mission, and concluded with the awarding of certificates.

The celebration not only deepened understanding of psoriasis and its related conditions but also created a safe space where patients and families felt heard, supported, and empowered.

[𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈] USeP conducts University In-house Review and Policy Pitching Competition on RDE Engagements for Faculty Category

The Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension (OVPRDE) conducted the 2025 University In-House Review and Policy Pitching Competition on RDE Engagements on July 23, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM via Zoom teleconferencing. This annual event serves as a platform to present and evaluate the significant outcomes of completed research, development, and extension programs, projects, and studies. The event featured oral presentations and a policy pitching competition, both evaluated by a panel of experts in the fields of Sustainable Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR); Education, Arts, and Sciences; Business, Economics, and Governance; Engineering and Information and Communication Technology (ICT); and Extension Engagement.

USeP VPRDE, Dr. Roger C. Montepio, opened the program by emphasizing that "true progress can be achieved with knowledge generated through rigorous research translated into tangible solutions—where innovative ideas are nurtured into practical applications, and these advancements directly uplift the lives of our citizens."

This was followed by a message of support from University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., who reiterated the importance of the event in identifying areas for improving innovative strategies in research and innovation, as well as ensuring the alignment of projects with the University’s strategic priorities, national development goals, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also lauded the efforts of the USeP community for the University's recent recognition in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI).

One of the event’s highlights was a plenary session titled “Fostering Inclusive Science and Innovation to Drive Progress and Sustainable Development Beyond the Academe,” delivered by Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, Deputy Executive Director of the Office of the Executive Director–Administration, Resource Management, and Support Services of DOST-PCAARRD. Dr. Carlos presented the Research and Development Results Utilization (RDRU) Framework, which outlines the innovation pathway from ideation, invention, and innovation to expected impact. The framework ensures that all R&D outputs are properly classified, validated, and processed for science communication, policy development, training, or technology dissemination based on readiness and applicability. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of accelerating adoption, fostering partnerships, and aligning initiatives with local needs and national goals to create meaningful impact, uplift lives, protect ecosystems, and drive collective progress.

The Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) also expressed its support through Asst. Prof. Dr. Norshakirah Bt A. Aziz, Deputy Head of the Center for Cyber-Physical Systems (C2PS). Dr. Aziz delivered a lecture on blockchain titled “Strengthening Trust: Blockchain Halal Technology,” which forms part of the ongoing USeP-UTP R&D collaboration for the project, “Halal Transparent Traceability System with Autonomous IoT Support for Halal and Tayeb Cacao Version 2.”

The event’s esteemed panel of evaluators included:
• Dr. Anastacia G. Notarte (Former Davao del Norte Provincial Agriculturist)
• Dr. Purisima G. Bayacag (Retired USeP Professor)
• Dr. Edna H. Jalotjot (Retired USeP Professor)
• Dr. Marleonie B. Bauyot (Ateneo de Davao University Professor and Chair, Educational Leadership Department)
• Ms. Mayan Jane J. Inni (DOST Provincial Director, Davao de Oro)
• Dr. Della Grace G. Bacaltos (Research Director, Davao Central College)
• Dr. Norlan Martinez (Dean, IT Department, DMMA College of Southern Philippines)
• Engr. Virgil A. Fuentes (Information Technology Officer, DICT)
• Dr. Josephine R. Migalbin (Professor, University of Southern Mindanao; RAISE Program Leader)
• Dr. Epifania Melba L. Manapol (Director, Office of Strategic Management and Quality Assurance, Ateneo de Davao University)

The awardees for the different clusters were:

Policy Pitching Competition
• Best Policy Paper: “MeloRisk Australasia: Reducing the Risk of Exotic Root-Knot Nematodes in Australasia” – Dr. Cecirly G. Puig (CARS)

Sustainable Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) Cluster
• Best Paper: “MeloRisk Australasia: Reducing the Risk of Exotic Root-Knot Nematodes in Australasia” – Dr. Cecirly G. Puig (CARS)
• 2nd Place: “Near-Real-Time Monitoring of Banana Nutritional Status and Yield Forecasting Using Airborne Multispectral Imaging” – Dr. James Jade S. Lasquites (CARS)
• 3rd Place: “An Integrated Management Response to the Spread of Fusarium Wilt of Banana in Southeast Asia – Objective 2” – Mr. Carlito Hindoy, Jr. (CARS)

Business, Economics, and Governance Cluster
• Best Paper: “Impact Assessment of the Project on Development of Sustainable Breeder Philippine Mallard Duck (PMD) Production System” – Mr. Rain Cesar B. Araña (CAEc)
• 2nd Place: “Mapping Conflicting Claims Inside the Ancestral Domain” – Atty. Arlene L. Cosape (School of Law)
• 3rd Place: “Tax Administration Strategy Framework: An Exploratory Factor Analysis” – Dr. Analiza P. Aguilar (CDM)

Engineering and ICT Cluster
• Best Paper: “Information Technology Education Human Resource Capacity Building Through Special Research Interest Groups” – Dr. Ivy Kim D. Machica (CIC)
• 2nd Place: “Energy Potential of Piper aduncum L. as a Biomass Feedstock for Downdraft Gasification” – Engr. Filmann T. Simpao (COE)
• 3rd Place: “Digital Transformation of Local Government Units (LGUs) in the Davao Region” – Mr. Hobert A. Abrigana (CIC)

Education, Arts, and Sciences Cluster
• Best Paper: “Rethinking and Revitalizing Philippine Indigenous Knowledge and Practices through Research and Creative Works (IKSP 3)” – Mr. Francis N. Reginio (CAS)
• 2nd Place: “Creating Supplemental References Integrating Bangsamoro History and Culture: Development and Publication of Research-Based Anthology Modules” – Assoc. Prof. Gladys Florangel I. Ortiz (CDM)
• 3rd Place: “Assessing the Mathematical Resilience of BSED-Mathematics Students: Basis for Enhancement Program” – Assoc. Prof. Yvonne M. Kiel (CED)

Extension Engagement Cluster
• Best Paper: “Developing Conflict-Sensitive and Peace-Promoting Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes (KSA) for Environmental Conflict Resolution (CSPP-ECR)” – Atty. Jesus A. Villardo III (SOL)
• 2nd Place: “Production of Healthy Banana Seedlings in Partnership with Maragusan Growers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAGROW MPC)” – Dr. Dernie T. Olguera (CARS)
• 3rd Place: “KaBULIG (Kalambuan sa BACASIFIA on Upscaling Livelihood Integrated Growth)” – Dr. Joie G. Cataytay (COE)

In conclusion, the 2025 University In-House Review and Policy Pitching Competition on RDE Engagements highlighted the invaluable contributions of USeP’s researchers and extensionists in advancing science, innovation, and community engagement. The event exemplified the University's steadfast commitment to becoming a premier research institution, transforming communities in the ASEAN and beyond.

[𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐋𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐃] The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), through the Continuing Education Center (CEC) under the Extension Division, in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President for Administration (OVPAd) and the Procurement Unit, successfully concluded the 3-day Procurement Forum on Republic Act No. 12009, also known as the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA). The forum was held on July 29, August 19, and August 20, 2025, at the AVR, CIC Building, USeP Obrero Campus, Davao City. It aimed to strengthen the knowledge and capacity of University officials and personnel in navigating the reforms introduced under RA 12009.

The forum opened with comprehensive discussions led by distinguished resource persons. On the first day, Department of Budget Management XI Director Gary R. Martel provided an in-depth overview of the NGPA framework, focusing on its Key Provisions and Implications for Government Procurement. This was followed by ARD DR. Antonio M. Faunillan, Jr. who elaborated on the integration of digital procurement, emphasizing the shift toward Procurement Electronic Means.

On the second day, Engr. Ariel A. Lagmay led the discussions on Contract Management and Accountability, equipping participants with essential strategies to ensure compliance, accountability, and efficiency in procurement implementation. On the third day, Dir. Martel tackled Strategic Procurement Planning, emphasizing its role in aligning procurement processes with institutional goals, while Dr. Faunillan provided valuable insights on the Modes of Procurement, clarifying procedures and best practices for various procurement methods.

Participants actively engaged in the sessions through interactive learning and sharing of insights, underscoring the importance of transparency, accountability, and efficiency in government procurement. The forum also provided a platform for collaboration among different University offices, strengthening collective commitment to uphold the principles of good governance in public procurement.

The Procurement Forum on RA 12009 successfully deepened participants’ understanding of the NGPA and reinforced USeP’s commitment to promoting transparent, accountable, and effective procurement practices.

[𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐋𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐃] The Extension Division, in collaboration with the Non-Teaching Staff Association (NTSA) of the University, conducted a community-based tree planting activity titled “Greening Communities: A University Extension Tree Planting Initiative” on August 8, 2025, at Magsaysay, Marilog District, Davao City.

This initiative reflects the University’s strong commitment to ecological stewardship and community empowerment. It aimed to contribute to addressing urgent environmental issues such as climate change, deforestation, and ecosystem degradation through active community engagement.

The activity brought together non-teaching personnel from both the Obrero and Mintal campuses, who collectively participated in the tree planting efforts, demonstrating solidarity and a shared responsibility toward environmental sustainability.

The successful implementation of the activity was made possible through the support and facilitation of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) XI, under the leadership of For. Rene A. Valenzuela and Ms. Gwendelyn A. Gurrea, along with the active assistance of the personnel from Barangay Magsaysay, Marilog District.

[𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗] USeP kicks off procurement forum on RA 12009; first session centers on key reforms, digital procurement

In response to the recently enacted Republic Act No. 12009, also known as the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) successfully launched the Procurement Forum on July 29, 2025, at the Audio-Visual Room, IT Building, USeP Obrero Campus, Davao City.

Read here: https://www.usep.edu.ph/.../usep-kicks-off-procurement.../

Aiming to harmonize interpretations of the new law and align its implementation with USeP’s operational needs and compliance requirements, the forum gathered members of the Administrative Council, Bids and Awards Committees (BAC), BAC Secretariats, Technical Working Groups, and personnel involved in procurement processes across the University’s delivery units.

On behalf of University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., Vice President for Planning and Quality Assurance Dr. Tamara Cher R. Mercado delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of aligning the University’s procurement processes with the sweeping reforms introduced by the new law.

The session began with a pre-training orientation delivered by Dr. Velouna R. Perez, Deputy Director of the Continuing Education Center, which facilitated a smooth transition into the technical discussions.

Key highlights of the forum included a presentation by Regional Director Gary R. Martel of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Regional Office XI, who provided an in-depth discussion on the key provisions of Republic Act No. 12009 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). Meanwhile, DBM RO XI Assistant Regional Director Dr. Antonio M. Faunillan, Jr. gave a focused talk on the procurement of goods and services through electronic means, underscoring the law’s push toward digitalization and transparency in public procurement.

The remaining sessions of the forum will continue on August 19–20, 2025, with more in-depth discussions and application-based learning to further equip the USeP community with the knowledge needed to effectively implement the new procurement law.

𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝟑 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐰𝐨 𝐈𝐏 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐝

The LIFE Project 3 Team conducted an activity titled “Program Presentation, Baseline Data Gathering, and Needs Assessment for Two Additional People’s Organizations (POs)” for Indigenous People (IP) farmers in Sitio Lumondong and Sitio Buli, located in Talaingod, Davao del Norte on 8 July 2025.

This activity laid the groundwork for designing interventions tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the two communities. Extension Division Director and LIFE Project 3 Project Leader Dr. Roby V. Pagong oriented the community on the objectives of the LIFE Program. This was followed by messages from the Datu of Lumondong Purok Chairman Carlos Umbo, Sitio Lumbayan Datu Duloman Lipos, Bulo Farmer Association Incorporated President Urocio Mananing, and 2nd Lieutenant Junnel C. Esteba of the 56th Infantry (TATAG) Battalion, 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army.

Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were effectively facilitated by Ms. Rizamae P***n, engaging community members in identifying their needs, challenges, and priorities for future interventions. The activity was successfully implemented with the support of the Extension Division staff and On-the-Job Training (OJT) trainees from the College of Applied Economics.