PSAU Office of Research and Development

05/08/2026

PSAU and SCAD Discuss Partnership on Long-Term Child Feeding Program Research

The Subic-Clark Alliance for Development (SCAD) and Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) met via Zoom on August 5, 2026, to discuss a research partnership on long-term child-feeding programs that supports SDG 2: Zero Hunger. PSAU was represented by Dr. Rogelio P. Carandang Jr., Director of the Office of Research and Development (ORD), and Assoc. Prof. Ruth T. Libag, who met with SCAD Executive Director Atty. Carminda Z. Fabros to discuss the proposed partnership.

SCAD cited a recommendation from Dr. Bernardo Villegas that prioritizing feeding programs for children in their formative years (0–7) is crucial, as insufficient meals during this period can cause permanent brain underdevelopment affecting cognition, academic performance, behavior, and productivity. SCAD noted existing government feeding programs are largely intermittent and lack long-term continuity, and sought PSAU's partnership to develop data-based, long-term feeding programs that member organizations and the private sector could adopt as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

05/08/2026

Presentation of PSAU's Research and Related Program Initiatives to the Current Local Cattle Production Situation

As part of its engagement activities in Central Luzon, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) conducted a visit to the region on August 5, 2026, to meet with key stakeholders in the livestock and poultry sectors. Representing the USDA FAS was Agricultural Specialist Ms. Jillian Kazumi V. Ipac, who led discussions to strengthen collaboration and gain insights into the current status, opportunities, and challenges facing the region's agricultural industries.

The meeting was held from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at the La Granja Café, Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU). The discussion served as a platform for exchanging information on research, extension, and development initiatives related to the livestock and poultry sectors.

Representing Pampanga State Agricultural University were Dr. Rogelio P. Carandang Jr., Director of the Office of Research and Development (ORD), and Dr. Rafael R. Rafael, Dean of the College of Agriculture Systems and Technology (CASTech). The PSAU representatives highlighted the University's ongoing research, innovation, and extension programs that support sustainable agricultural development and advance the livestock and poultry industries in Central Luzon.

This initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger by promoting sustainable livestock production, strengthening agricultural research and innovation, and fostering partnerships to improve food security and build resilient agricultural systems.

03/08/2026

The 39th Agency In-House Review: A Simple Step Toward Sustainability

Sustainability did not arrive as a policy memo. It arrived as a simple request: bring your own tumbler. That was how the 39th Agency In-House Review of Completed Research Projects began, on July 29, 2026, at the 2nd Floor UFC, PSAU, Magalang, Pampanga.

Rather than distributing disposable water bottles, organizers asked participants to bring their own containers, a modest change that spared an estimated 400 plastic bottles from single use. It was a small instruction, easy to follow, yet it set the tone for everything that came after.

The same thinking shaped how information was shared. A smart TV displayed the research posters, while a wooden stand enabled guests to scan QR codes to access the program, abstracts, presentation schedule, and researcher profiles, thereby replacing printed materials. This adjustment saved roughly 25 reams of bond paper, or about 12,500 sheets, that would otherwise have been printed and likely discarded after a single use.

Waste management was treated with similar care. Segregation bins were placed throughout the venue for food waste, plates, spoons and forks, and paper cups, encouraging attendees to sort their waste by type rather than letting it accumulate as a single mixed pile.

Even small design details carried this intention. The lei given to guests was designed to double as a mug coaster after the event, extending its usefulness beyond the ceremony itself. Both the lei and the QR stand were crafted from wood reclaimed from trees felled by Typhoon Nando, giving material that might have gone to waste a renewed purpose.

None of these were sweeping reforms. But together, they demonstrate how small, deliberate choices can meaningfully reduce waste at an event of this scale, offering a practical model for how institutional gatherings might be run more responsibly.

These simple practices align with several Sustainable Development Goals. Reducing single-use plastics and paper, along with proper waste segregation, supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting more sustainable resource use. The resulting decrease in plastic and paper consumption also contributes, in a small but tangible way, to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by lowering the event's overall carbon footprint. Meanwhile, the reuse of wood from trees felled by Typhoon Nando reflects SDG 15 (Life on Land), easing pressure on forest resources rather than adding to it.

03/08/2026

The 39th Agency In-House Review: Advancing Research and Development through Innovation, Research Translation, and Community Impact

The Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), through its Office of Research and Development (ORD), convened the 39th Agency In-House Review of Completed Research Projects for Calendar Year 2025–2026 on July 29, 2026, at the University Function Center (UFC), PSAU, Magalang, Pampanga. Running from 7:30 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening, the day-long assembly brought together researchers, evaluators, and administrators under the theme "Advancing Research and Development through Innovation, Research Translation, and Community Impact."

The proceedings opened with the national anthem and an invocation, followed by opening remarks from Dr. Geraldine C. Sanchez, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Extension and Training (RIET), who underscored the University's commitment to translating research into tangible community outcomes. Dr. Amalia C. Briones, Director of the Office of Extension and Training, introduced the guests and participants, including external evaluators from partner agencies, and the morning closed with a preview of the newly developed RIET website.

The core of the review consisted of paper presentations organized into four categories: Agriculture, Non-Agriculture, Development, and Social Science and Education, each held as a simultaneous breakout session with its own panel of evaluators, moderator, and rapporteur. Researchers defended the qualities, methodologies, and implications of their completed projects before evaluators drawn from both internal and external institutions, including the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III (DA-RFO III), the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), and the Central Luzon State University and the Central Luzon Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium (CLSU-CLAARRDEC), reinforcing the credibility and objectivity of the evaluation process.

The closing program centered on recognizing research achievements, with certificates awarded by Dr. Sanchez and Dr. Rogelio P. Carandang Jr., Director of the ORD. Dr. Carandang then delivered the closing remarks, reiterating the University's continued investment in research excellence and the translation of that excellence into meaningful community impact.

Awards and Recognition
The individuals named below were adjudged recipients of the Best Paper, Best Presenter, and Best Poster distinctions across the four research categories, following evaluation by the respective panels convened for the review.

Research- Agriculture Category

- Best Paper: Optimizing Productivity and Value-Added Products of Tamarind (Phase II)
Mr. Carlo G. Cunanan
Ms. Warlina M. Guzman
Ms. Princess B. Torres
Dr. Helen Grace D. Felix
Dr. Rafael R. Rafael
Mr. Rafael P. Pantoja

- Best Presenter: Mr. Israel M. Guanzon
Integrated Nutrient, Microbial, and Tillage Management for Sustainable Soybean Production

- Best Poster: Bioenergy Products from Agricultural Biomass: Optimization of Torrefaction, Pyrolysis and Briquetting Processes (Year 2)
Dr. Mari Rowena C. Tanquilut
Dr. Anthony C. Nicdao
Engr. Robin Christopher L. Cueva

Research – Non-Agriculture Category

- Best Paper: Assessment of Microbial Contaminants, Toxins and Antibiotic Resistance in Locally Produced Dairy Milk in Pampanga: Implications for Public Health and Safety
Dr. Rogelio P. Carandang Jr.
Dr. Maylen D. Pineda
Dr. Precy D. Magtoto
Dr. Sarah Jane P. Tiangco
Dr. Frederick P. Tan
Dr. Ella Mae N. Lazatin
Mr. Walter L. Pacunana
Dr. Jan Jorvie G. Tayag

- Best Presenter: Dr. Precy D. Magtoto
Assessment of Microbial Contaminants, Toxins and Antibiotic Resistance in Locally Produced Dairy Milk in Pampanga: Implications for Public Health and Safety

- Best Poster: Characterization of the Phytochemical, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Properties of Endophytic Bacteria Isolated from Different Varieties of Bamboo Sheaths
Ms. Sharmane Y. Villanueva
Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Tuazon
Ms. Ruth T. Libag

Development Category

- Best Paper: Project 3-B: Enhancement of the Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator in Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) through the RAISE Program
Mr. Walter L. Pacunana
Ms. Divine Reine S. Aquino
Ms. Chonnie Cholla R. David

- Best Presenter: Mr. Walter L. Pacunana
Project 3-B: Enhancement of the Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator in Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) through the RAISE Program

- Best Poster: Kamp Maalam: Knowledge Sharing Hub for University's Technology Assessment and Promotional Initiatives Mr. Walter L. Pacunana
Ms. Divine Reine S. Aquino

Research – Social Science and Education Category

- Best Paper: Enhancing Science Writing in High Schools: Knowledge, Skills, Challenges, and Module Development
Ms. Jeramie Pediongco
Mr. Dexter Andrew O. Manalo
Ms. Ma. Eva P. Dionisio

- Best Presenter: Mr. Dexter Andrew E. Manalo
Enhancing Science Writing in High Schools: Knowledge, Skills, Challenges, and Module Development

- Best Poster: Correlates of Mental Health Among Generation Z
Dr. Glenn M. Calaguas
Mr. Ferwin P. Precenillo
Mr. Fernando B. Gascon

The 39th Agency In-House Review directly advances several Sustainable Development Goals: its agricultural studies contribute to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through improved productivity and food security; its capacity-building function supports SDG 4 (Quality Education); its emphasis on research translation and technology development reflects SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure); and its collaboration with DA-RFO III, DOST-PCAARRD, and CLAARRDEC exemplifies SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

23/07/2026

15/07/2026

This qualitative phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of ten non-government junior high school teachers in Pampanga and Tarlac, Philippines, who teach subjects outside their area of specialization, uncovering the challenges, coping strategies, and unexpected opportunities for growth that come with out-of-field teaching.

AUTHOR: Calaguas, G. M. & Dungca, E.S.

The full research article can be accessed at: https://cahaya-ic.com/index.php/JBER/article/view/1394

SDG 4: Quality Education

15/07/2026

This study analyzes 41 years (1980–2021) of rainfall, temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed data from seven synoptic weather stations across Central Luzon, Philippines, using the Mann-Kendall test and Sen's Slope Estimator to detect long-term climate trends affecting the region's agricultural productivity.

AUTHOR: Fajardo, S.M. H., & Calma, J. D.

The full research article can be accessed at: https://ph02.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jtir/article/view/250008

SDG 13: Climate Action

15/07/2026

This study compares Physical Education students' perceptions of bland versus interactive PowerPoint presentations used during Mathematics instruction, examining differences in active participation, motivation, and learning outcomes among 36 students at a university in the Philippines.

Authors: Mercado, M.C.D.C., Calaguas, K.B., Vitug, Z.M.O., Castro, A.B., Yumang, M.G.M., Gaspar, R.S., & Nucum, R.G.

The full research article can be accessed at: https://doi.org/10.56773/bj.v4i1.58

SDG 4: Quality Education

15/07/2026

Data were gathered through surveys and interviews with fish owners and cooperators across six municipalities in Pampanga, covering the costs of control measures, preventive practices used, and any additional income earned from IAS. Results showed that the estimated costs of managing IAS were higher in brackish water areas than in freshwater areas, with total costs outweighing the benefits gained across both. The study concludes that government intervention should prioritize controlling IAS populations, raising awareness on declining native fish harvests, and protecting the livelihoods of local fish farmers.

Author: Pacunana, W. L.

The full research article can be accessed at: http://doi.org/10.4194/AQUAST2178

SDG 14: life below water

02/07/2026

📣 CALL FOR PROPOSALS: NCCA COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM 2027

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) officially opens the Call for Proposals for the CY 2027 Competitive Grants Program.

📅 DEADLINE OF SUBMISSION
31 August 2026 (Monday)
11:59 PM (Philippine Standard Time)

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Anchored on Republic Act No. 7356 or the NCCA Charter, the program provides financial assistance to individuals, cultural workers, NGOs/POs/IPOs, NGAs, LGUs, SUCs, and organizations whose projects contribute to the development, protection, preservation, promotion, and dissemination of Philippine arts and culture.

For the complete copy of the call for proposals, visit https://drive.google.com/.../1mwe8cVyT.../view

NOTE: All proponents must first secure NCCA Accreditation and must not have any unliquidated grant or derogatory record with the NCCA or any government agency.

Project proposals with complete requirements may be submitted via email or courier.

📍 SUBMISSION DETAILS
Program Management Division (PMD)
National Commission for Culture and the Arts
Room 5B, Fifth Floor, NCCA Building
633 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila

For more information you may call or email:
☎️ (02) 8527-5535 local 524, 541, and 507
📧 [email protected] See less

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1406739094830689&set=a.224319943072616

📣 CALL FOR PROPOSALS: NCCA COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM 2027

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) officially opens the Call for Proposals for the CY 2027 Competitive Grants Program.

📅 DEADLINE OF SUBMISSION
31 August 2026 (Monday)
11:59 PM (Philippine Standard Time)

-----

Anchored on Republic Act No. 7356 or the NCCA Charter, the program provides financial assistance to individuals, cultural workers, NGOs/POs/IPOs, NGAs, LGUs, SUCs, and organizations whose projects contribute to the development, protection, preservation, promotion, and dissemination of Philippine arts and culture.

For the complete copy of the call for proposals, visit https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mwe8cVyT-_uhJ4IR9rTcTbCn8r855w-m/view

NOTE: All proponents must first secure NCCA Accreditation and must not have any unliquidated grant or derogatory record with the NCCA or any government agency.

Project proposals with complete requirements may be submitted via email or courier.

📍 SUBMISSION DETAILS
Program Management Division (PMD)
National Commission for Culture and the Arts
Room 5B, Fifth Floor, NCCA Building
633 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila

For more information you may call or email:
☎️ (02) 8527-5535 local 524, 541, and 507
📧 [email protected]