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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.

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CLSU ‘Golden Grains’ Inspire Students on their Journey to Success

As part of this year’s Alumni Homecoming Celebration, distinguished graduates from various academic fields returned to Central Luzon State University (CLSU) for the “Professor of the Day” event which aimed to motivate and guide current students by offering valuable insights and professional advice. During simultaneous sessions held across different colleges, these accomplished alumni shared their career journeys, professional experiences, and practical wisdom, providing inspiration and guidance to the next generation of CLSU graduates. Among the distinguished alumni who served as resource speakers were the following: Mr. Edilberto A. Quiba for the Agricultural Science and Technology School; Dr. Zorayda V. Ang and Ms. Marife A. Santos for the College of Agriculture; Atty. Jedidiah Kate Cuevas for the College of Arts and Social Sciences; Mr. Mark Anthony S. Angeles and Mr. Joseph F. Francisco for the College of Business and Accountancy; Dr. Eleanor A. Manibog and Ms. Mercedes H. Blancas for the College of Education; Engr. Edwin B. Ubungin, Engr. Janice P. Vargas, Engr. Sherwin O. Valdez, along with Ryan Jay A. Cabrera, for the College of Engineering; Dr. Joseph Christopher C. Rayos and Mr. Rhomel A. Martinez for the College of Fisheries; Mr. Den Mar M. Dacquel, Mr. Jimbo E. Espinoza, and Ms. Marvic E. Chan for the College of Home Science and Industry; Dr. Alwyn John D. Jamandre for the College of Science; and Dr. Arden C. Evangelista and Dr. Paul A. Cardenio for the College of Veterinary Science and Medicine. During a luncheon with the alumni resource speakers, University President Evaristo A. Abella emphasized the importance of the event, stating that it “provides real-world insights and practical knowledge, career inspiration and guidance, as well as opportunities for mentorship and networking.” The alumni recounted how their experiences and learnings at CLSU shaped their careers and personal growth. Their stories highlighted the value of resilience, dedication, and continuous learning. Through this program, students had the opportunity to engage with mentors who offered real-world perspectives on their chosen fields, empowering them to navigate their future careers with confidence and purpose.

Feb. 03, 2025

Alumni Homecoming Reunites Generation of ‘Golden Grains’; Honors Alumni Success

Generations of CLSU "Golden Grains" gathered at the FPJ Communication Hall on February 1 for the much-anticipated Alumni Homecoming organized by the CLSU Alumni Association Inc. (CLSUAAI) and the University Alumni Relations Office (ARO) together with its college coordinators. The event served as a meaningful reunion where alumni reconnected, reminisced, and celebrated their cherished experiences at the University. With the theme “From Memories to Milestones: Celebrating CLSU’s Global Footprint,” the homecoming welcomed over 500 alumni from across the globe. The highlight of the celebration was the recognition of four distinguished alumni, honored for their exceptional achievements and contributions in their respective fields dubbed as Gintong Butil Award. The awardees include the following: -Mr. Rafael Lardizabal Pagaling, founder of Zennor Hydroponics, for Entrepreneurship Award; -Atty. Margaret V. Castillo-Padilla, currently serving as a Deputy State Prosecutor, for the Community Service Award; -Dr. Jesusa Cabling Beltran, Chief Science Research Specialist and Scientist I at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), for the Research and Development Award; and -Dr. Lilian Cruz Garcia, Executive Director of the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), for the Professional Achievement Award. Also, a loyalty award was bestowed to: - Capariño Family - Flores Family - Mananggit Family While topnotchers from the different licensure examinations were also recognized: - Mr. Ethan Aduptante - Mr. Oliver T. Reclamado - Dr. Steven Gio M. Parungao Meanwhile, University President Evaristo A. Abella expressed his sincere appreciation to all alumni highlighting their enduring connection to the university. “All of you are part of our global footprint, a network of individuals united by the values and vision of this institution. Let this homecoming remind you that your journey, no matter how far they’ve taken, will always have a route that will lead you back here to your home, your CLSU,” said President Abella. Indeed, the event offered alumni a meaningful opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate significant life milestones with former classmates, friends, and professors. It also allowed them to revisit and explore the university's various facilities, rekindling fond memories of their time on campus.

Feb. 03, 2025

The 2025 CLSU Administrative Council Members

Leading the way! A closer look at the dedicated Central Luzon State University’s Administrative Council Members for 2025. Under the leadership of University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, the Council is committed to providing quality education and excellent service to the students and stakeholders. The Administrative Council composed of the University President, Vice Presidents, College Deans, Center Directors, and the Board Secretary. These are the individuals guiding the University in #SievingforExcellence! #CLSUAdCo2025

Jan. 31, 2025

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