Two projects that would enhance disaster response capabilities and foster enterprise development within the Cagayan Valley region were recently approved and are underway.
Cagayan State University (CSU) is the proponent of the two projects approved for funding by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD). These programs are “SAFE-LIGTAS Phase II” and “Sustainable GAP-Based Vegetable Production and Processing Technologies Towards Enterprise Development in Cagayan Province – Phase II.”
These projects are part of Phase 2, which is designed to build on the successful outcomes of Phase 1, with the aim of further enhancing resilience, productivity, and community-based enterprise development across the region. Through these strategic initiatives, CSU reaffirms its commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices and improving the livelihoods of local communities.
To formally start the two newly approved projects, an inception meeting was held at the CSU Conference Hall, Andres Campus, Tuguegarao City.
During the meeting, CSU Officer-in-Charge University President Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez emphasized the University’s unwavering commitment to the successful execution of both projects.
DOST-PCAARRD Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD) Director Noel A. Catibog underscored the importance of the "Three Cs" for project success: Commitment through strong dedication to the projects' core purpose—enhancing the lives of farmer-beneficiaries beyond mere deliverables; Consistency which requires a call for sustained efforts and solidifying partnerships throughout the project duration; and Collaboration, where there is a need for co-ownership among academic institutions, local government units (LGUs), government agencies, and farmer groups to ensure mutual success.
Designated Project Leader Dr. Josie Y. Bas-ong provided a comprehensive overview of both projects, detailing their targets and anticipated impacts on the community.
Messages of commitment from various project partners further demonstrated a united front in support of these initiatives. The DOST Region 2 reaffirmed its strong backing for both projects. The Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office 2, along with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Region 2 and LGUs, including Gonzaga, Lal-lo, Solana, and Sto. Niño, expressed their dedication to ground-level implementation.
Notably, the Municipal Agriculture Office of Solana highlighted its pivotal role in agro-industrial development and pledged full cooperation for the project’s success. Furthermore, Campus Executive Officers from Lal-lo, Piat, Gonzaga, and Carig Campuses are committed to providing the necessary institutional resources and leadership support.