The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), through the initiative of the Knowledge Management Center (KMC), and support from the Research and Innovation Cluster, successfully conducted the Joint Orientation and Awareness Caravan on December 10, 2025 (Wednesday) via Zoom, gathering 156 student researchers, faculty members, external researchers, and industry partners from across its four campuses—Pili, Calabanga, Pasacao, and Sipocot. The activity served as a timely and highly relevant initiative that reinforces the University’s mandates on instruction, research, extension, and production.
This year’s caravan showcased CBSUA’s commitment to transforming its laboratories into dynamic hubs of innovation, learning, and community engagement. Anchored on the theme “Showcasing CBSUA’s Laboratory Facilities and Services through Innovation, Collaboration, and Knowledge Sharing,” the event aligned with the University’s broader Research and Innovation Cluster Roadmap 2025–2030, emphasizing digitalization, knowledge management, and sustainable, measurable outcomes.
The session opened with an Opening Prayer and the Philippine National Anthem, followed by warm welcome remarks from Assoc. Prof. Shela V. Ruiz, Knowledge Management Center (KMC) Director and Activity Proponent. An inspirational message was then delivered by Atty. Dominador F. Faurillo, Vice President for Administration and Finance, underscored the importance of research-driven innovation in shaping CBSUA’s future. Mr. Jeffrey E. Moreno, faculty representative from Sipocot Campus, provided an overview of the program’s presenters and topics, setting the tone for a morning filled with technical insights and knowledge exchange.
From 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., participants were introduced to various key laboratories integral to CBSUA’s academic and research operations. Mr. David Mark B. Diaz, Food Testing Laboratory (FTL) Director, highlighted the laboratory’s role in food safety assurance and product quality evaluation. In addition, Ms. Princess Ramonah V. Marabe, Complementary Food Processing Facility (CFPF) Director, centered her presentation on nutrient-rich food production aimed at addressing community nutrition needs. Further, Assoc. Prof. Dindy Deanne V. Orit, Plant Genetic Resources Research Laboratory (PGRRL) Director, focused her discussion on the preservation of plant genetic resources and research supporting sustainable agriculture. Moreover, Dr. Arce D. Bellere, Mushroom Processing Research Center (MPRC) Director, shared innovative techniques in mushroom culture and product development were explored. Additionally, Ms. May G. Esguejo, Biology Laboratory Coordinator, Science Centrum Laboratory (SCL), and Assoc. Prof. Katrina G. Gepilano, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, highlighted modern science laboratory setups supporting instruction and experimentation. More so, Assoc. Prof. Julie Amara M. Bondilles, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL) Coordinator, emphasized digital education tools, learning innovations, and faculty development. Then, at 11:00 a.m., Ms. Eloisa Jaycee S. Igno, CPA, Financial Officer, discussed the University’s Laboratory Services and Facilities Use, clarifying protocols and accessibility for internal and external researchers.
This was followed by an Open Forum moderated by Mr. Jeffrey E. Moreno, allowing participants to raise queries and share insights on inter-laboratory collaboration, research opportunities, and facility utilization. The Commitment Message, delivered by Ms. Abigail V. Guinoo, RAgr, Director of the Extension Services Division, reaffirmed CBSUA’s dedication to leveraging its laboratories in fostering community-responsive extension initiatives. Lastly, Dr. Mae SA. Lustre, Director of the Research Services Division, provided the Closing Remarks, expressing gratitude to all participants and highlighting the importance of continuous collaboration in advancing research excellence within the institution.
The Joint Orientation and Awareness Caravan stands as a testament to CBSUA’s unwavering mission to integrate research-based knowledge, digital innovation, and extension services in building a more empowered research community. By showcasing its cutting-edge laboratory facilities and strengthening partnerships within and beyond the University, CBSUA moves forward with renewed purpose in fulfilling its vision for a research-driven future. | Report and photos from Assoc. Prof. Shela V. Ruiz, KMC Director, Menard Jonas B. Mesoga, KMC Staff, and Ma. Luisa C. Panambo, RSD Staff
