Being one of the finalists of the PCAARRD 2024 Ugnay Award, two research projects of CSU-Gonzaga: CESTEEPH and the Tangkiran Haven, were subjected to final field evaluation by the external evaluation committee members of the Cagayan Valley Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (CVAARRD) on August 19, 2024 at the MABRIC Conference Hall.
In the booklet released by CVAARD containing the project brief of ten (10) research projects of different universities that qualified for final validation, Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, CVAARRD RRDCC Chair, shared the significance of the evaluation in ensuring that the results are not only scientifically sound, but also viable and beneficial to the community.
“The final evaluation is an essential phase that bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical application. The outcomes of these validations will greatly contribute to the enrichment of our agricultural practices and the enhancement of rural livelihoods,” Dr. Aquino, shared.
During the evaluation of the projects, the evaluators conducted interview to the project leader and researchers including the beneficiaries of the projects. The interview focused on specific and quantitative evidence of the impact of the projects to them. After which, the team proceeded to barangay Caroan, Gonzaga for a visit to the Mangrove site.
The conduct of the final evaluation in CSU-Gonzaga was supported by the OIC President, himself, Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez, who personally welcomed the evaluators and shared a message of support to the campuses of Gonzaga, Lallo and Lasam that were, as well, subjected for final evaluation. The Vice President for Research, Development and Extension of the university, Dr. Junel Guzman was likewise present in the event.
Furthermore, the two projects were parts of the Program of the campus in support to its niche- Mangrove and Bamboo-Based Agroforestry Research and Development. In order to address biodiversity conservation, the former President of CSU, Dr. Urdujah Alvarado, showed support to the program and formed cooperation and partnership with various agencies for resources and funding. Hence, the implementation of these projects was realized.
Project 1 is entitled Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology, Education, Environment Protection and Health (CESTEEPH): A Collaborative Community based Program for the Conservation, Restoration and Sustainable Utilization of Mangrove Ecosystem in Cagayan, while Project 2 is entitled Tangkiran Haven: Building Stable, Sustainable and Resilient Communities through Bamboo-Based Agroforesty Research, Development and Extension.
The programs aimed to achieve ecological development to the poor and climate change vulnerable communities in the three coastal barangays of Gonzaga, Aparri and Sta. Ana (for Project 1) and in Cagayan province and nearby provinces (for Project 2).
The programs also aimed to build resiliency through protection, restoration, conservation and sustainable utilization of mangrove ecosystem through research, development and extension, bioengineering and hydrology, capacity, livelihood, ecotourism, education, health and nutrition, public advocacy and awareness building (CVAARRD Field Evaluation Booklet).
The project leaders and researchers were the CEO Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr., Mr. Marvin Baloloy, Dr. Romar Banadero, Mrs. Girlie Hardy and Mrs. Mylene Ermitanio. The projects were in partnership with the DENR, DOST and DTI. The project beneficiaries were the Fisherfolks and Farmers Associations Presidents, CAMBASS ARC Cooperative, Municipal Agriculture Office of Gonzaga, MDRRMO of Gonzaga, PDRRMO of Apayao, Apayao Province Caroan Aquaculture and Association of Fisherfolks Cagayan including the Bamboo Industry Development Council.
Photos: MIS office