MSU-Maguindanao Signs MOA for Climate Resilience Project Funded by TTPD-DOST-PCAARRD
Mindanao State University-Maguindanao recently held a virtual signing for the project titled “Enhancing Climate Resilience through Native and Fruit Tree-Based Agroforestry Technology: A Science and Technology-Based Initiative for Emergencies and Hazards” on August 14, 2024, at Simeon Datumanong Hall, Institute of Management, Tamontaka, Maguindanao del Norte. The project, led by Dr. Rowena C. Benavides, Dean of College of Forestry and Environmental Studies (CFES), will span two years and six months, concluding in December 2026. Funded by the TTPD-DOST-PCAARRD with a budget of 5 million pesos, this initiative aims to address the region’s vulnerability to climate change through sustainable agroforestry practices.
Chancellor Dr. Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona expressed her gratitude to TTPD DOST-PCAARRD for their support, noting the severe impact of Typhoon Paeng on Datu Blah Sinsuat on October 28, 2022. She emphasized that this project will significantly contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 13.
Dir. Noel A. Catibog, Director of the Technology Transfer and Promotion Division, emphasized that the project proposal would finally be implemented and expressed hope that it would significantly benefit the targeted communities. He looked forward to potential future expansions and assured that DOST-PCAARRD would be ready to assist with any project needs. He also expressed anticipation for further discussions on other initiatives that could benefit both parties and the communities served by MSU-Maguindanao, as long as they align with DOST-PCAARRD’s vision.
The project focuses on improving ecosystem and community resilience in Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao, by rehabilitating 10 hectares of land using agroforestry techniques. It involves establishing two community nurseries for seedling production and livelihood creation, promoting agroforestry technologies to enhance adaptation to climate change, and providing training for farmers and landowners on agroforestry practices. The initiative seeks to address climate change impacts by improving soil health, reducing erosion, and supporting local economies.
Present were Vice-Chancellor for Research and Extension Dr. Raquel Santiago-Arenas, Research Director Peter Jan De Vera, and Dr. Rowena Benavides. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) was represented virtually by Dir. Noel A. Catibog, Director of the Technology Transfer and Promotion Division; Ms. Yolanda Tayag, Supervising Science Research Specialist; Dr. Engelbert Lalican, Senior Science Research Specialist; and Analiza Diaz, Science Research Specialist. The project team and CFES faculty were also present.