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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, 3120 Nueva Ecija, Philippines

CLSU, OWWA Empower OFWs through Mushroom Pharming Training under the HOPE Project

Nov. 26, 2024

Laurence Lingat | OSA

Aiming to equip Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families with valuable skills for livelihood ventures, Central Luzon State University (CLSU) conducted an Intensive Training on Mushroom and Spawn Production (Mushroom Pharming) on November 13-14, 2024. The training marked Phase I (Batch I) of the Holistic OFW Program towards Empowerment (HOPE) Project, funded by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Region III. This initiative directly benefited members of the OFW Family Circle Federation of Nueva Ecija, equipping them with valuable skills and opportunities for livelihood development. The HOPE Project, launched as an outcome of the CLSU OFW Conference 2024, aims to support OFWs in transitioning to sustainable livelihoods through comprehensive capability-building initiatives. These include mushroom pharming, organic agriculture, personal finance management, and entrepreneurship. The training introduced the fundamentals of mushroom and spawn production, offering hands-on learning and technical guidance to prepare them for income-generating opportunities. With practical skills and entrepreneurial insights, participants were poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities while navigating life beyond overseas employment. The HOPE Project highlights the shared commitment of CLSU and OWWA to delivering impactful programs that empower OFWs to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency. Phases I (Batch 2) and II are scheduled for December 5-7, offering additional sessions designed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills further. The CLSU team, led by Prof. Janet O. Saturno and project leader Dr. Jayson L. Marzan, along with project staff members Dr. Elizabeth Bajit, Dr. Irene G. Bustos, Dr. Carolyn P. Gonzales-Marzan, Mr. Sherwin Celestino, Mr. Ryan De Quina, and Mr. Laurence Lingat, aimed to address the unique challenges faced by OFWs during reintegration. Their efforts focused on fostering resilience and adaptability, equipping participants with the skills needed for sustainable success.

Related SDGs
  • 2

    Goal 2: Zero Hunger

  • 3

    Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being

  • 5

    Goal 5: Gender Equality

  • 9

    Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

  • 15

    Goal 15: Life on Land

  • 16

    Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

  • 17

    Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals

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CLSU Receives ₱5M DOST-PCAARRD Grant for Mungbean Impact Research

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through the College of Agriculture (CAg), the Socio-economic Research and Data Analytics Center (SERDAC), and the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA), has been awarded a five-million pesos research grant by the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) for the implementation of the project titled “Impact Assessment of the Program on Improving Productivity and Local Utilization of Mungbean.” It will assess the impacts of previous DOST-PCAARRD-funded interventions designed to improve mungbean productivity and enhance its local utilization. Specifically, it will examine changes in farm productivity, the adoption of technologies, market and value chain outcomes, and socio-economic benefits for farmers and other stakeholders. The project also seeks to generate evidence-based insights that can guide future policy directions and program refinements in the mungbean industry. The project, to be led by Dr. Mari Joy M. Buenavista, together with Dr. Rocelyn M. Barroga, Asst. Prof. Maria Celia M. Fernando, Dr. Elizabeth R. Bajit, Asst. Prof. Jairus Jesse Tubal, and Asst. Prof. Roann P. Alberto, as a team member, was approved during the 14th Regular Directors’ Council Meeting of DOST-PCAARRD and will be implemented over a period of 18 months. An inception meeting was successfully conducted on January 23, 2026, in close coordination with the funding agency and the project’s external evaluator. The initiative reinforces CLSU’s mandate to contribute to national agricultural development through rigorous research, impact evaluation, and science-based policy support. It will also further strengthen CLSU’s collaboration with DOST-PCAARRD and underscores the University’s growing role in agricultural research, impact assessment, and national-level development planning. #SievingForExcellence

Jan. 27, 2026

Ayala Museum Brings Botong Francisco Artworks to CLSU Agri Museum

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU) Agricultural Museum, in partnership with the Ayala Museum, showcased a traveling exhibit of the national artist Carlos Francisco, entitled "Botong Francisco: A Nation Imagined," which will run from January 19 to February 4, 2026, at Reimers Hall. The exhibit aimed to broaden the perspective of the CLSU community in understanding the history and to strengthen their sense of identity and nationalism. It features 25 canvases, including his famous works such as Mother Nature’s Bounty Harvest, Maria Makiling, Nagmamandala, Woman and Boy Walking Against the Wind, and Sungkaan. University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, in his inspirational message during the opening of the exhibit, said “Through these masterpieces, we can encounter scenes of everyday life, history, struggle, celebration, and traditions that collectively see our national identity,” highlighting support for each of the meaningful art pieces. Mr. Kenneth Esguerra, senior consultant and curator of Ayala Museum, in his message, defines the museum as an institution for preserving information and Filipino identity. He further highlighted that this exhibit invites the students and faculty to engage with the arts and foster a deeper cultural understanding. The event was also graced by Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension, Dr. Emmanuel M. Vera Cruz, Associate Director and Head of Exhibitions and Collections of Ayala Museum, Ms. Aprille Tijam, and was organized by the Center for Central Luzon Studies (CCLS), headed by Dr. Melanie P. Tolentino. #SievingForExcellence

Jan. 20, 2026

CLSU Features ItikPINAS Technology in UHAY Festival Grand Parade 2026

With vibrant energy and unity, the Central Luzon State University (CLSU), headed by the University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, participated in the 13th Uhay Festival Grand Parade and Float Competition as part of the celebration of the 25th Charter Anniversaryof the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, today, January 20. Alongside the CLSU officials and Siel - the official mascot, the University contingent marched proudly through the streets of the Science City of Muñoz, showcasing the university’s solidarity with the local community. The University float featured “Lakan,” a Philippine Mallard duck, reflecting the CLSU spirit–resilient yet humble, grounded yet progressive. The duck flourishes both in land and water, just as the CLSU adapts to the changing needs of society while staying true to its mission of service, innovations, and nation-building. Furthermore, the impressive float was made possible through the efforts of the Research, Innovation and Extension (RIE) Program, particularly Mr. Jomar S. Garabilles who led in the conceptualization and execution, the University Business Affairs Program (UBAP), and likewise the personnel from the Administrative Services Office. “Lakan” - CLSU’s entry, stood as a testament to the university's creativity and technical synergy.

Jan. 20, 2026

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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines 3120
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