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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, 3120 Nueva Ecija, Philippines

CLSU Stages "Cacao TALKS 2026" to Bolster Value Chain

Mar. 12, 2026

Clara Ysabel Cawagdan Bravo | SCO

To showcase the latest findings and technologies in Cacao, the Central Luzon State University held the Cacao TALKS (Transforming Agriculture through Livelihoods, Knowledge and Sustainability) 2026: A Cacao Value Chain Conference on March 11, 2026, at the RIE Amphitheater. The conference convened over 120 cacao farmers, researchers, and entrepreneurs, with more than 1,000 views on Facebook Live, synchronizing efforts to elevate the Philippine cacao value chain. The event was made possible under the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) funded project titled “Productivity, Technical Efficiency, and Competitiveness of the Cacao Value Chain in the Philippines” led by Dr. Edilyn V. Lansangan, which aimed to transition the industry from traditional farming to a technology-driven, market-competitive sector. During the opening program, University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, represented by Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Emmanuel M. Vera Cruz, emphasized the importance of the gathering, noting that the presence of stakeholders reflects a collective drive to position cacao as one of the primary engines for rural development. “Today's conference brings together a diverse and dynamic community of stakeholders, from farmers and researchers to entrepreneurs, policymakers, and development partners. Your presence reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the Cacao Value Chain and unlocking the vast potential of Cacao as a driver of sustainable agriculture, livelihood generation, and rural development.” A high-level technical session featured industry leaders and researchers who addressed the multifaceted challenges of the sector. Philippine Cacao Industry Council (PCIC) President Consul Armi Lopez-Garcia and Dr. Divina M. Amalin of De La Salle University headlined a panel that covered national industry status, and the potential of cacao in the market. In addition, experts from CLSU, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), University of the Philippines Mindanao, Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), and Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) discussed advanced pest management and the integration of modern agricultural techniques. Beyond production, the conference bridged the gap between the laboratory and the marketplace. Ms. Eva Ritchelle D. Padua, owner of The Dulce Chocolate House, provided an entrepreneurial perspective through presenting a developed product from cacao. The event also featured a technology demonstration held at PHilMech. The event is spearheaded by CLSU together with PCIC/Philippine Cacao Industry Association, Inc. (PCIA), PhilMech, UPLB, DOST-PCAARRD, and Central Luzon Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium (CLAARRDEC). #SievingForExcellence

Related SDGs
  • 4

    Goal 4: Quality Education

  • 13

    Goal 13: Climate Action

  • 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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DBM Conducts Validation of CLSU Infrastructure and Financial Performance

Officials from the Department of Budget and Management Region III (DBM) visited Central Luzon State University to conduct a Full-Time Delivery Unit (FDU) Validation and site inspection on August 26, 2026. The visit aimed to evaluate and monitor the university's financial and physical performance, address administrative bottlenecks, and inspect ongoing projects around the campus. Led by Chief Budget and Management Specialist II, Ms. Adoracion Q. Mangalino, the DBM delegates inspected key project sites, including the new dormitories built on the former old market, the newly renovated university library, and various completed infrastructure projects around the university. After the inspection, the group convened for the University President's report, which highlighted achievements in academic standing, global rankings, research, and extension, followed by the FDU assessment proper. Key officials present in the meeting were Vice President for Administration, Dr. Ariel G. Mactal, Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Emmanuel M. Vera Cruz, Vice President for Business Affairs, Dr. Karenina B. Romualdo, Director of Financial Management Services Office, Ms. Jinky Parugrug, Director of Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Management Office, Mr. Ryan Esteban to provide insight into their respective areas. The joint visit concluded with a strong reaffirmation of the university's commitment to delivering high-impact projects that meet DBM standards.

Aug. 27, 2026

CLSU Launches ‘Sidlan’ Community Pantry to Support Students

Embodying the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, the Laban sa Ipinagbabawal na Gamot, Tulay na Agapay sa Sielesyuans at Sambayanan (LIGTAS-CLSU), a non-college-based student organization, in partnership with the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) headed by Dean Irene Bustos, officially launched its community pantry today, August 26 at the OSA tambayan. Dubbed “Sidlan: Ang Pantry ng Sielesyuans,” the event was first conceptualized two years ago through the collective contributions and support of the university community. Guided by the principle “Kumuha ayon sa pangangailangan, magbigay ayon sa kakayahan,” the pantry will operate daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM for all CLSU students. During the opening ceremony, LIGTAS-CLSU President Jovan Clay Evangelista emphasized the project's community-driven mission. "Ito ang Sidlan, ang pantry ng Sielesyuan, isang proyekto mula sa komunidad, para sa komunidad,” Mr. Evangelista said. University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella commended the organizers for initiating a program aimed at directly assisting fellow students. "Alam naman natin na hindi pantay-pantay ang kakayahan ng bawat estudyante dito sa ating campus, kaya from time to time ay maglalagay din tayo dito upang matulungan ang ibang estudyante,” Pres. Abella stated, assuring continued institutional and personal support for the project. To embody the spirit of the community pantry, Dr. Abella brought with him essential groceries and sacks of rice to share with the community. The organization continues to welcome donations of food and essential goods from the CLSU Community and the public, while encouraging all Sielesyuans, especially those facing financial hardship, to take what they need from the pantry. #SievingForExcellence

Aug. 26, 2026

Former Student Regent Viterbo is Among the Region’s Top Outstanding Students, Completes DAP’s BAGANI Program

Ms. Aljone V. Viterbo, former Student Regent of Central Luzon State University (CLSU), has been recognized as a top finalist in the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) program for Central Luzon, affirming her commitment to academic excellence and passion for public service. Prior to this, she also completed the pioneering program of the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) for the youth dubbed as BAGANI: Rising Leaders Development Program. Ms. Viterbo, who graduated magna cum laude, served as the Chairperson of the University Supreme Student Council (USSC) and as Student Regent for academic year 2025-2026. Her TOSP selection reflects both her academic performance and her eight-year record of sustained involvement in community outreach and volunteer initiatives. “Hindi ko po ito itinuturing na aking tagumpay lamang. Tulad ng lagi kong sinasabi, hindi ko magagawa ang lahat ng ito kung hindi dahil sa mga taong aking pinaglilingkuran at nakasama sa paglilingkod, pag-aaral, at pagkatuto,” Ms. Viterbo shared. Highlighting her deep commitment to public service and community development, she shared, “Ang lahat ng ito ay upang patuloy akong makapagbigay ng serbisyo para sa ikabubuti ng ating komunidad.” The regional selection process was organized by the TOSP Region 3 Alumni Community of Heroes (TOSP-R3ACH). The program provides a platform for student leaders across the region to strengthen leadership capabilities, reinforce core values, and advance social development initiatives. Meanwhile, before receiving the TOSP accolade, Ms. Viterbo completed the BAGANI Program of the DAP, which aims to equip emerging leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to develop and implement sustainable community-based initiatives. Held from June 13 to July 11, 2026, the program selected only 56 fellows from more than 2,000 applicants nationwide, making Ms. Viterbo one of the distinguished BAGANI fellows who successfully underwent the highly competitive selection process. After completing the BAGANI Program, Ms. Viterbo shared a profound realization about the value of public service, saying, “Serving the people is a privilege. The Philippines and the Filipino people are worth fighting for. Kahit magulo at basag ang bansa natin ngayon, may pag-asa pa rin, at puwede iyong magsimula sa atin.” With this, the University extends its congratulations to Ms. Viterbo on this achievement and her continued success. May your efforts continue to inspire the student body and future leaders of our country.

Aug. 25, 2026

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