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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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CLSU Bags Multiple Awards at AACCUP Annual Conference

Central Luzon State University (CLSU) earned distinctions during the 39th Annual National Conference and General Assembly of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), held on March 24, 2026, at Century Park Hotel. The university was awarded a Plaque of Recognition for attaining Level IV Re-Accredited Status in Institutional Accreditation, the highest distinction granted to higher education institutions. Further elevating its achievements, CLSU secured the third-highest rank among performing State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), recognized specifically for its significant number of academic programs maintaining Level IV Status. The awards were formally received by University President, Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, together with Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ravelina R. Velasco, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension, Dr. Emmanuel M. Vera Cruz, Director of Quality Assurance Office, Dr. Eden S. David, Chief of Institutional Quality Assurance Division and AACCUP Institutional Accreditation Focal Person, Dr. Lorenz J. Fajardo, and Quality Assurance Officer, Mr. Mark Anthony M. Ventura. Adding to the university’s accolades, former Chief of the Accreditation Center (now the Quality Assurance Office) and retired professor from the College of Agriculture, Dr. Mario S. Suba, was honored with the Manuel T. Corpus Outstanding Accreditor Award. The recognition underscores his exemplary expertise, integrity, and long-standing commitment to advancing quality assurance in Philippine higher education. These recognitions underscore the University’s continued leadership in academic excellence and institutional quality assurance. With its sustained achievements and dedication to high standards, CLSU further strengthens its position as one of the country’s leading state universities committed to delivering quality education and impactful service.

Mar. 25, 2026

CLSU Sustains Quality Standards, Maintains ISO 9001:2015 Certification

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU) has reaffirmed its dedication to quality by successfully maintaining its ISO 9001:2015 certification following an audit conducted on March 23-24, 2026, by SOCOTEC Certification Philippines Inc. The intensive two-day external audit was led by Dr. Catherine Sigua, Lead Auditor, with technical support from Auditors Ms. Harlene Vizcarra and Mr. Richard Bacomo. The team carefully assessed the university’s Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure every process remains compliant with the highest global standards. Following the audit, Dr. Sigua shared their positive feedback along with findings, observations, and opportunities for improvements during the closing program. In response, University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, represented by Vice President for Administration Dr. Ariel G. Mactal, expressed gratitude to the auditors for their professional assessment and commended the employees for their collective efforts. Moreover, Dr. Mactal assured the auditors that the university will incorporate all identified opportunities for improvement to enhance operations and service delivery further. This accomplishment highlights the university’s ongoing commitment to providing top-quality academic and administrative services, reinforcing its status as a leading institution recognized for its global standards.

Mar. 25, 2026

CVSM Dominates National Mikrobyong Mikrobyo Quiz Contest at UPLB

The College of Veterinary Science and Medicine (CVSM) once again proved it is a powerhouse in veterinary education by bagging the championship title in the recently concluded 2nd National Mikrobyong Mikrobyo Quiz Contest held on March 21, 2026, at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna. Outshining the 17 competing teams, CLSU dominated the leaderboards, with both of its representative teams finishing in the top five. The first team of CLSU, composed of Allen Dave B. Serrano, Hannah Angela P. Lacsina, and Anne J. Muncal, was declared the champions. In contrast, the team of Verna Antoinette P. Luis, Lance Josef E. Landagan, and Renato S. Alombro, Jr. clinched the 4th Place. Both teams were also recognized as Best in Microbiology for their performances in the said competition. The teams were coached by the dedicated faculty members of the college such as Dr. Joyce Abigail F. Soriano and Dr. Joseph Adrian T. Dela Cruz. The event was organized by the University of the Philippines Society for the Advancement of Veterinary Education and Research (UP SAVER).

Mar. 23, 2026

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Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines 3120
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