USTP Claveria research to enhance food security gets 5M DOST-PCAARRD funding
By Dr. Eric Randy R. Politud, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, USTP Claveria
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In a historic milestone, faculty researchers from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Claveria (USTP Claveria) secured a P5 million research grant from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) through its Socio-Economic Research Division (SERD). This milestone underscores USTP’s growing commitment to advancing agricultural research beyond institutionally funded studies.
The 18-month project, “Carrying Capacity of Major Agricultural Growing Areas in Misamis Oriental: Basis for Model Development and Policy Recommendation to Enhance Food Security,” will run from May 1, 2025, to October 31, 2026, with project leader Engr. Maricel P. Villamo and faculty members Ms. Lalaine G. Gamolo and Mr. Arnel S. Travero from the College of Arts and Sciences, who will assess the carrying capacity of agricultural zones in Misamis Oriental. Its findings will aid in developing predictive models and policy recommendations to enhance food security and sustainable land use.
(from left to right) Dr. Renante Taylaran, Engr. Maricel P. Villamor, serving as the Study Leader, alongside esteemed faculty members Ms. Lalaine G. Gamolo, Ms. Lissette Magbanua and Mr. Arnel S. Travero from the College of Arts and Sciences of USTP Claveria.
Following DOST-PCAARRD’s approval, the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing first took place at the DOST Central Office, followed by a ceremonial signing at the USTP System Office on February 27, 2025. The event was led by USTP System President Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II and attended by key officials, including Dr. Apolinario B. Gonzaga Jr., Vice President for Research and Innovation of the USTP System; Dr. Eric Randy R. Politud, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation of USTP Claveria; Dr. Renante D. Taylaran, Director of the Research Office of USTP Claveria; and Ms. Lissette Magbanua, Research Associate of the Research Office of USTP Claveria. Their presence signified institutional support for impactful research initiatives.
USTP System President Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II leads the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with DOST-PCAARRD officials, marking the official commencement of the P5M research project.
Building Capacity for Research
This grant is a breakthrough for USTP Claveria and the entire USTP System, reinforcing its role as a leader in agricultural research. Faculty and staff are now pursuing externally funded projects, shifting from reliance on institutional funding and strengthening USTP’s national research presence.
The success of this proposal highlights USTP Claveria’s strong capacity-building initiatives, equipping faculty and staff to develop and submit competitive research proposals. Through continuous training and mentorship, the university fosters a research-driven culture that produces high-impact studies published in internationally indexed journals.
The project team with key university officials: USTP System President Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, Vice President for Research and Innovation of the USTP System Dr. Apolinario B. Gonzaga Jr., and Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation of USTP Claveria Dr. Eric Randy R. Politud.
This project is among several DOST-PCAARRD-funded initiatives at USTP Claveria, further cementing its reputation as a research powerhouse in agriculture. As the university embarks on this groundbreaking study, its commitment to sustainable agricultural development and food security remains unwavering, opening doors to more collaborations, funding opportunities, and innovations that will shape the future of Northern Mindanao and beyond.
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