University of Abra - Research and Development Department Main Campus

The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) recently held the 2025 National Textile Convention at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on January 30–31, 2025.

One of the event's highlights was the Textile Stakeholders Recognition and Fellowship Night, where the Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology (ASIST) was recognized for its significant contributions to the advancement of the Philippine textile industry. The institution was honored for its efforts in establishing the Bamboo Textile Fiber Hub and the Natural Dye Hub, both of which are supported by DOST-PTRI.

ASIST has been actively collaborating with agencies such as DOST-PTRI to enhance its research, development, and innovation (RDI) capabilities, particularly in sustainable textile production. Through these partnerships, the institution has strengthened its role in promoting local textile technologies, natural fiber utilization, and eco-friendly dyeing solutions. These initiatives not only contribute to the growth of the Philippine textile industry but also align with ASIST’s strategic goal of achieving university status, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence, technological innovation, and industry-driven research.

Representing ASIST at the event was Dr. Nero M. Paderes, Director for Agriculture and Food Technology Innovation Incubation and Commercialization Center (AFTIICC), who accepted the award on behalf of the institution and the College President Dr. Gregorio T.Turqueza Jr.

LOOK!

Abangan ang isa pang episode ng Siyensya Kordilyera kung saan tampok ang isang pananaliksik tungkol sa Automatic Fogging System para sa pagpaparami ng ani at pagpapabuti ng kalidad ng Oyster Mushroom.

Alamin ang detalye ng Automatic Fogging System mula kay Dr. Nero M. Paderes, Project Leader at Director ng Agriculture and Food Technology Innovation Incubation and Commercialization Center ng Abra State Institute of Science and Technology at si Mr. Andre Amadeo ng DZEQ Radyo Pilipinas One-Baguio.

Samahan niyo kami mula 9:00AM hanggang 10:00AM sa November 18, 2024.

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LOOK!

Abangan ang isa pang episode ng Siyensya Kordilyera kung saan tampok ang isang pananaliksik tungkol sa Automatic Fogging System para sa pagpaparami ng ani at pagpapabuti ng kalidad ng Oyster Mushroom.

Alamin ang detalye ng Automatic Fogging System mula kay Dr. Nero M. Paderes, Project Leader at Director ng Agriculture and Food Technology Innovation Incubation and Commercialization Center ng Abra State Institute of Science and Technology at si Mr. Andre Amadeo ng DZEQ Radyo Pilipinas One-Baguio.

Samahan niyo kami mula 9:00AM hanggang 10:00AM sa November 18, 2024.

ASIST RnD Team Conducts Benchmarking Visit to SLU-REC to Enhance Research Ethics Standards

On October 21, 2024, the Research and Development (RnD) team from Abra State Institute of Science and Technology (ASIST), led by Research and Development Director Dr. Pablo B. Bose Jr., visited the Saint Louis University Research and Ethics Committee (SLU-REC) for a benchmarking activity aimed at strengthening their research ethics framework. This initiative underscores ASIST’s commitment to elevating the quality and integrity of its research practices.

The event, held at the International Teahouse, SLU Main Campus, was hosted by SLU’s Office of Global Relations and Alumni Affairs (OGRAA). It began with welcoming remarks from Dr. Joselito C. Gutierrez, Executive Assistant to the President, and Dr. Felina P. Espique, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who both commended ASIST’s proactive approach to enhancing their research standards through collaboration.

During the benchmarking activity, ASIST’s team—comprising Ethics Committee members and RnD staff—gained insights from a comprehensive presentation by Professor Rainier C. Moreno-Lacalle, Chair of SLU-REC. The presentation detailed SLU’s ethical guidelines, committee history, and best practices, emphasizing the importance of maintaining rigorous ethical standards. “Good research is ethical research,” Professor Moreno-Lacalle stated, reinforcing the need for robust ethical frameworks.

The session provided an opportunity for ASIST representatives to engage in an in-depth question-and-answer segment, where they sought clarity on various aspects of SLU’s research ethics processes. The exchange of knowledge was met with enthusiasm, as ASIST’s team expressed gratitude for the valuable insights and practical guidance shared by SLU-REC, which they plan to implement in their own institution.

This benchmarking visit reflects ASIST’s dedication to fostering a culture of ethical research and continuous improvement.

The 14th Regional Symposium and 7th Student Congress, held at Benguet State University from October 14-17, concluded with a series of notable achievements in various categories. Among the winners, Dr. Nero M. Paderes and Dr. Pablo B. Bose, Jr. secured THIRD PLACE in both the Best Paper and Oral Presentation (Professional Level) in the AANR category with their research titled "Stingless Bee Colony Propagation Through Hose Method: Effectiveness and Practicality." This study highlighted innovative methods for propagating stingless bee colonies, contributing valuable insights to the field of apiculture.

In the same category, the research entitled: "Mapping and Inventory of Bamboo Resources in the Abra Province" by Dr. Nover M. Matso, Dr, Nero M. Paderes, Dr. Pablo B. Bose, Jr, Mr. Carlito Daodaoen, Jr and Reynal Islao won THIRD PALCE in the Poster Presentation at the professional level. This study provided a comprehensive overview of bamboo resources in the Abra Province, offering critical data for resource management and conservation efforts.

Ciela Marrie Pacopia's paper, "Discursive Politics in Framing Water Governance: The Case of the Abra River Basin," was recognized with the THIRD BEST PAPER award in the oral presentation at the professional level. This work delved into the complexities of water governance, offering a nuanced analysis of the Abra River Basin's management.

Maricel P. Buenafe and April Mayne F. Castaneda's study, "Development and Market Potential of Kalunay (Green Amaranth) Churros: An Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Attributes," won THIRD PLACE in the Poster Presentation at the professional level in the IEET Category. Their research explored the potential of kalunay churros in the market, providing valuable insights into its acceptability and sensory attributes.

In the Institutional Booth Competition headed by Bersheeba L. Taclawan and her team, ASIST emerged as a significant winner, securing the Most Diversified Booth Award and the Most Visited Booth Award, as well as winning FIRST PLACE in the competition. These accolades underscored ASIST's impressive display and engagement during the event.

The symposium and congress were a testament to the high level of research and innovation within the region, with participants showcasing a wide range of topics from agriculture to environmental science and beyond. The winners' achievements reflect the dedication and expertise of professionals and students in advancing knowledge and practical solutions in their respective fields.

Congratulations to the ASIST R&D and the Agriculture and Food Technology Innovation, Incubation, and Commercialization Center (AFTIICC) for their outstanding achievements at the 14th Regional Joint Symposium on Research and Development and the 7th Regional Student Congress, held at Benguet State University from October 14-17, 2024. The centers booth was recognized for having the most visited booth, the most diversified product offerings, and was awarded First Place in the Institutional Booth Competition. AFTIICC’s products were highly sought after and purchased throughout the event, underscoring the quality and innovation of the technology products developed through the institution’s robust innovation program.

Seminar-Workshop Paves Way for Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation in Cordillera Administrative Region

In a concerted effort to bolster agricultural and aquacultural innovation in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), a landmark seminar workshop was held last March 25 to 27, 2024. Hosted at the ATBI Center within Benguet State University (BSU), the event garnered participation from a spectrum of stakeholders, including CAR State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Government Units (LGUs), the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and the WWRDEC.

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ruth C. Diego, the Director of the BSU ATBI, and with the esteemed presence of Dr. Janet P. Pablo, Director of the Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD), the seminar-workshop unfolded as a pivotal platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange.

One of the highlights of the event was the active participation of representatives from the Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology (ASIST), headed by Ms. Kae Ann Marie Balingit together with Ms. Bersheeba Taclawan, and Mr. Mario Buenafe. Their engagement underscored ASIST's commitment to fostering regional innovation and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Felipe S. Comila, President of Benguet State University, warmly welcomed all participants, emphasizing the significance of collective action in driving sustainable development in the CAR region.

Throughout the seminar-workshop, attendees engaged in dynamic discussions and brainstorming sessions to chart the course for establishing a Regional Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation (ATBI) framework. Drawing upon the experiences and successes of existing ATBIs within institutions like Ifugao State University (IFSU), ASIST, and BSU, participants explored strategies to catalyze innovation, support budding entrepreneurs, and harness the region's agricultural potential.

With a firm commitment to collaboration and innovation, the seminar-workshop concluded on a promising note, setting the stage for concerted efforts toward realizing a vibrant and sustainable agri-aqua technology ecosystem in the Cordillera Administrative Region.