The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), through the initiative of the Knowledge Management Center (KMC) with support from the Research and Innovation Cluster, successfully conducted the Joint Orientation and Awareness Caravan on December 10, 2025, via Zoom. The activity gathered 156 student researchers, faculty members, external researchers, and industry partners from the University’s four campuses in Pili, Calabanga, Pasacao, and Sipocot. It served as a timely and relevant initiative that reinforced the University’s mandates on instruction, research, extension, and production.
This year’s caravan highlighted 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 Research and Innovation Cluster Roadmap 2025 to 2030, which emphasizes digitalization, knowledge management, and sustainable and measurable outcomes.
Assoc. Prof. Shela V. Ruiz, Director of the Knowledge Management Center and activity proponent, warmly welcomed the participants, while Atty. Dominador F. Faurillo, Vice President for Administration and Finance, delivered an inspirational message. He underscored the importance of research-driven innovation in shaping the future of CBSUA. Mr. Jeffrey E. Moreno, faculty representative from the Sipocot Campus, then provided an overview of the program presenters and topics, setting the tone for a morning of technical insights and knowledge exchange.
During the morning session, participants were introduced to key laboratories that support CBSUA’s academic and research operations. Mr. David Mark B. Diaz, Director of the Food Testing Laboratory, highlighted the laboratory’s role in food safety assurance and product quality evaluation. Ms. Princess Ramonah V. Marabe, Director of the Complementary Food Processing Facility, focused on nutrient-rich food production to address community nutrition needs. Assoc. Prof. Dindy Deanne V. Orit, Director of the Plant Genetic Resources Research Laboratory, discussed the preservation of plant genetic resources and research initiatives supporting sustainable agriculture. Dr. Arce D. Bellere, Director of the Mushroom Processing Research Center, shared innovative techniques in mushroom culture and product development. Ms. May G. Esguejo, Biology Laboratory Coordinator of the Science Centrum Laboratory, together with Assoc. Prof. Katrina G. Gepilano, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, highlighted modern science laboratory facilities that support instruction and experimentation. Assoc. Prof. Julie Amara M. Bondilles, Coordinator of the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning, emphasized digital education tools, learning innovations, and faculty development initiatives. 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 both internal and external researchers.
An open forum moderated by Mr. Moreno followed, allowing participants to raise questions and share insights on inter-laboratory collaboration, research opportunities, and facility utilization. A commitment message delivered by Ms. Abigail V. Guinoo, RAgr, Director of the Extension Services Division, reaffirmed CBSUA’s dedication to maximizing its laboratories in support of community-responsive extension initiatives. Dr. Mae S. A. Lustre, Director of the Research Services Division, delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all participants and emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration in advancing research excellence within the institution.
The Joint Orientation and Awareness Caravan stands as a testament to CBSUA’s continuing mission to integrate research-based knowledge, digital innovation, and extension services in building a more empowered research community. By showcasing its laboratory facilities and strengthening partnerships within and beyond the University, CBSUA moves forward with renewed purpose in pursuing a research-driven future. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘙𝘐-𝘒𝘔𝘊 𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘮
