USTP Claveria holds Strategic Planning for Agropolis S&T Park

By Dr. Nueva D. Salaan, USTP Claveria STRATCOMM
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Claveria, Misamis Oriental (USTP Claveria), held a two-day strategic planning session for the Agropolis Science & Technology (S&T) Park, a major initiative aimed at fostering agricultural innovation, eco-tourism, and sustainable development. The strategic master planning took place on March 12 and 13, 2025, at the 3rd Floor Administration Building, USTP Claveria.

The first day of the meeting focused on the progress and future development of the Agropolis S&T Park. Engr. Reuel Pallugna, USTP Agila S&T Park Manager, welcomed participants and provided an overview of the park’s ongoing developments. A video showcasing the 14-hectare hub was presented by Ar. Mark Roeland de Castro, President of EnPraxis, highlighting the potential of the area. Mr. Clint Django Pacana, Agropolis S&T Park Manager, further explained the need for collaboration among stakeholders to support the master development plan.

Key discussions included the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program, with Engr. Christian Legaspi is outlining eligibility criteria for Filipino citizens seeking affordable housing. The roundtable discussion also touched on pressing issues like renewable energy adoption, water and resource management, and the promotion of agrotourism, particularly at Mt. Balatukan. Participants emphasized the importance of sustainability, food security, and community engagement in the project.

On day 2, a site visit to Lupok Dairy Farm of USTP Claveria allowed participants to gain a firsthand look at the proposed location for the Agropolis S&T Park. Discussions focused on integrating agriculture and tourism, with suggestions for dormitories, student accommodations, and agro-eco-tourism facilities. Ar. de Castro underscored the importance of a master plan that addresses both agricultural and tourism needs, taking into account the site’s unique soil, terrain, and natural resources.

A workshop followed, where Dr. Maribel Tizo, Head of the USTP Agropolis team, presented the phase 2 plans for the dairy farm, including a proposed budget of 265.5 million pesos for the development of infrastructure. Other key topics included the integration of energy-efficient solutions, such as solar panels, and the creation of cultural preservation zones.

The planning session concluded with the recognition of participants and their contributions. Dr. Dennis T. Yamuta, Vice President for Finance Administration of USTP Claveria, thanked everyone for their active involvement, highlighting the Agropolis project as a significant step towards positioning Claveria as a leader in agro-ecotourism in Northern Mindanao.

With a clear vision for the future, stakeholders agreed on a collaborative approach moving forward, with immediate actions focused on groundbreaking for the housing component and the development of tourism-related facilities.