USTP Claveria strengthens ties with DOST-PCAARRD in Advancing Livestock Research
By Carlos Ian H. Mendoza, USTP Claveria STRATCOMM
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Claveria, Misamis Oriental (USTP Claveria) reaffirmed its strong collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) through an Inception Meeting and Project Monitoring activity held on June 30, 2025, at the 3rd Floor of the Administration Building, USTP Claveria.

The activity focused on the two (2) livestock-related projects funded by DOST-PCAARRD, led respectively by Dr. Imelda U. Hebron and Prof. Kharen Cimagala Cabanday. The event marked a significant milestone in the continuing partnership between the two institutions in promoting research and innovation in the livestock sector.
Among the distinguished attendees were representatives from DOST-PCAARRD’s Livestock Research Division (LRD) and key officials from USTP Claveria and the USTP System. Notable officials included Dr. Renato Ortiz Arazo, Chancellor of USTP Claveria; Dr. Apolinario Babia Gonzaga Jr., Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension of the USTP System; Dr. Eric Randy R. Politud, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation of USTP Claveria; and Dr. Renante D. Taylaran, Director for Research of USTP Claveria.

The formal program began with a welcome message from Dr. Eric Randy R. Politud, who emphasized the importance of collaborative research and innovation in livestock development. This was followed by the Message of Rationale delivered by Dr. Synan S. Baguio, Director of DOST-PCAARRD’s Livestock Research Division, highlighting the goals of the partnership and the significance of science-based solutions in agriculture.
USTP Claveria Chancellor Dr. Renato O. Arazo also delivered a message with emphasis on institutional support, commitment to excellence, and the transformative power of university-government partnerships.
Representative from DOST-PCAARRD–LRD Mr. Stephen Mendoza discussed DOST guidelines relevant to the project’s implementation and monitoring. Project presentations then followed.

Project Leader Dr. Imelda U. Hebron introduced the project titled “Improving the Efficiency of Assisted Reproduction Techniques in Support of Dairy Cattle Breed Development,” which aims to enhance the reproductive performance of dairy animals through scientific innovation.
Prof. Kharen C. Cabanday presented the second project entitled “Varietal Improvement and Innovative Production of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) to Augment Feed Resources for Dairy Animals,” emphasizing the role of quality forage in livestock productivity.
The session concluded with a Project Monitoring and Open Forum, allowing for meaningful dialogue between researchers, project stakeholders, and DOST-PCAARRD representatives regarding project progress, challenges, and opportunities for future collaboration.
Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Apolinario B. Gonzaga Jr., who emphasized the importance of sustaining these research initiatives to uplift the local dairy industry and rural farming communities through science, technology, and innovation. The presence of technical and administrative personnel from both institutions further highlighted a shared commitment to research excellence and inclusive development.

As USTP Claveria continues to build its reputation as a research-driven university, its collaboration with DOST-PCAARRD reinforces its vital role in addressing pressing agricultural challenges through innovative solutions.