NBSC PRESENTS EXTERNALLY FUNDED PROJECT TO DA-BAR FOR COMPLETION REVIEW
Northern Bukidnon State College (NBSC) successfully presented its externally funded research project to the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) during the agency’s Completion Review held on October 17, 2025, in Quezon City. The review serves as DA-BAR’s standard process to assess the outcomes and accomplishments of projects it has supported.
NBSC showcased its study titled “Feasibility Study for the Metropolitan Food and Agri-Based Products Cluster (MFAPC) Approach in Northern Mindanao.” The project, which received funding from DA-BAR in April 2023, reached completion in September 2025. This core research endeavor was implemented by NBSC in collaboration with partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs): Central Mindanao University (CMU), Camiguin Polytechnic State College (CPSC), Mindanao State University (MSU) at Naawan, and the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) System. The study aimed to assess the viability of establishing agroparks, consolidation hubs, or rural transformation centers in key clusters across Northern Mindanao. These strategies are intended to enhance the efficiency of the agriculture and fisheries sectors and strengthen regional food security, aligning with the Northern Mindanao Regional Development Plan.
The project presentation was led by project leader Dr. Mary Koren Witting-Acuesa, who is also the Director of the NBSC Research, Development, and Innovation Division (RDID). She was joined by members of the research team: assistant project leader Ms. Caroline Laarni R. Sereñas, CMU component leader Dr. Oliver Michael C. Narreto, and project researcher Mr. Melven I. Valmoria. The team highlighted the project’s major findings, policy recommendations, and potential impact on the agri-food sector in the region.
Representatives from DA-BAR commended the team for the project’s comprehensive analysis and its alignment with the agency’s thrust to advance agricultural innovation and rural development through research-based policymaking.
The successful completion review reinforces NBSC’s role as a vital partner in advancing sustainable development and innovation across Northern Mindanao. This initiative showcases the college’s growing influence in shaping evidence-based policy and its strategic approach to fostering regional development through collaborative research. By ensuring its scholarly work remains relevant and responsive to the needs of key government agencies, NBSC continues to expand its research footprint and strengthen its commitment to a greener, more sustainable community.
