CLSU Lights Hope, Launches Project HANDOG in Carranglan, NE

The old proverb, “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime,” has been brought to life by the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) through its outreach initiative dubbed as Project HANDOG – Hakbang ng Akademya para sa Nasalanta, Dala ay Oportunidad at Ginhawa. This initiative is far more than a simple act of charity as it is a strategic, long-term commitment to empowering farming families in Carrangalan, Nueva Ecija. Instead of putting its efforts and resources toward the traditional University-wide Christmas Party, CLSU redirected its focus entirely to this Outreach Activity. This decision serves as the university's way of giving back to the community, highlighting that the accolades it has received throughout the year will always be for nation-building. Delivering his welcome message at the launch of Project HANDOG today, University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, the driving force behind the activity, also shared the purpose and motivation behind the project: “Sa halip na kami ang magsaya, pinili po naming maghatid ng kaligayahan at tulong sa mga nangangailangan. Nandito po kami, kasama ang pamunuan ng Carranglan, hindi lamang upang mamigay ng gift packs, kundi pati na rin ng mga teknolohiya na maaari ninyong mapakinabangan. Kami po ay handang tumulong sa inyo, katuwang ang Lokal na Pamahalaan upang mabigyan ng kabuhayan ang mga mamamayan dito sa Carranglan at magkaroon kayo ng kakayahan na mas umunlad pa." Rooted in the University’s mission to serve the peoples in the communities, the project emphasizes ‘handog na oportunidad’ by introducing the Technology Village Development Program (TVDP), and ‘handog na ginhawa’ through the distribution of gift packs to farmers. As part of the implementation of TVDP, a Tekno-Talakayan was held where resource persons from specialized centers presented their technologies, including Mushroom Production, Special-Purpose Rice, Vegetable Production, and Tilapia Production. This extension program, implemented by the University Extension Program Office, aims to enhance the economic well-being of community members by providing access to vital assistance and, more importantly, cutting-edge technologies developed by CLSU. To cap off the event, the Administrative Council together with the sector representatives for students, faculty, and academic support staff facilitated the handing of Christmas gift packs and seedlings to pre-identified farmer beneficiaries. The Administration extends its sincere gratitude to all who offered support, both financially and in kind. Your generosity was instrumental in the success of this event, especially as we continue to ensure that the technologies developed by the University reach the grassroots and positively impact more lives. Special appreciation is also given to the Local Government of Carranglan, under the leadership of Mayor Rogelio B. Abad and Vice Mayor Ricardo C. Manucdoc, for their support and partnership.