The Leyte Normal University (LNU) and the Philippine Carabao Center@VSU (PCC@VSU) are the new members of the Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Program (ViCARP) after the ViCARP-Regional Research and Development Coordinating Committee and Regional Research Development/Extension Network-Regional Advisory Committee (RRDEN-RAC) members approved their application during the first quarter joint meeting held on February 24, 2023, at the RDE Hall, Visayas State University, Baybay City, Leyte.
“The university strongly believes that membership to the ViCARP is beneficial and greatly contributes to the development of the region. Some of the LNU’s Research and Development initiatives focused on biological sciences, physical sciences, ecological processes, global issues and concerns, gender and development, and communication” Dr. Evelyn B. Aguirre, LNU President, stressed in her letter of intent.
Meanwhile, the PCC became a member due to its high regard for research which focuses on technology development and dissemination to boost the carabao industry in the region. Currently, they are implementing a nationally-funded project on the genetic improvement of carabaos.
Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin, ViCARP-RRDCC Chairperson and VSU President, congratulated LNU and PCC as they are now bonafide members of ViCARP, the top performing consortium of the country.
Dr. Tulin emphasizes the benefits that each member can get from joining ViCARP, such as; a) capacity building-training/knowledge and skills improvement; b) attendance to various conferences and symposia; c) benchmarking with other institutions; d) R and D guidance and coordination to include knowledge management; e) access to services for products innovation/commercialization; f) helps to strengthen policy advocacy and formulation; and g) networking.
ViCARP is a consortium of 28 active member institutions in Eastern Visayas that is mandated to spearhead the planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating Research and Development of agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources in Eastern Visayas. #EYBanoc.