DOST-PCAARRD Bestows Pantas Award to President Orden

The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) bestowed the prestigious Pantas Award for Most Outstanding Research Administrator to President Edgar A. Orden during its 51st founding anniversary celebration in Los Baños, Laguna today, November 10.   Dr. Orden as the 10th University President, exemplified an outstanding performance as a research administrator during his term. As a seasoned researcher himself, Dr. Orden who implemented numerous projects and national R&D programs knew the importance of the specialized R&D Centers of the university which he pushed to perform its full potential from technology generation up to commercialization.   Continuing the quest for knowledge innovation and scientific contribution, Dr. Orden also supported the formulation and institutionalization of the harmonized R&D Agenda which led to the generation of 112 newly developed technologies and products.   With the challenges brought by the pandemic, Dr.  Orden demonstrated his capacity as a visionary leader who turned uncertainties into opportunities. He mandated the creation of different management information systems that improved the operation of the university. During this time, he personally supervised the construction of three major centers such as the Precision and Digital Agriculture Center, the Center for Transboundary Animal Diseases, and the Plant Pest Disease Diagnostic and Research Center.   Dr. Orden also supported, mentored, and encouraged the faculty researchers to submit proposals to funding agencies for continuous support on research engagements. As a result, the university generated almost 1 billion pesos worth of R&D funds from both local and foreign institutions.   To ensure a stronger and globally competitive CLSU, Pres. Orden spearheaded the establishment of partnerships with national and international organizations. All these endeavors resulted in the recognition of CLSU in various global rankings.   All of these accomplishments and recognitions paved the way for Dr. Orden to be worthy of the Pantas Award for Most Outstanding Research Administrator in recognition of his unwavering commitment and efforts that benefited not only CLSU but also the farmers, entrepreneurs, students, and other stakeholders in nearby communities.   During his acceptance speech, Dr. Orden conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the DOST-PCAARRD and to the CLSU community for their support and trust in his capability as a research administrator.   “The PANTAS Award is a fitting recognition of not just my deeds but CLSU’s accomplishments in the field of S&T, innovation, and commercialization for the last 4 years under my leadership. It was not a smooth journey but a long and winding one, nevertheless, there is sweetness in all of these successes and after all, success is not a destination but it is a journey” said Dr. Orden.   In receiving the said award, Dr. Orden was joined by his wife, Dr. Maria Excelsis M. Orden. A number of CLSU and CLAARRDEC personnel were also present during the awarding ceremony.   The PANTAS Award is given every two years by DOST-PCAARRD to anyone who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources research and development in the Philippines.