𝘽𝙖𝙜𝙪𝙞𝙤 𝘾𝙞𝙩𝙮 — In a significant step toward strengthening agricultural development and research collaboration in Cordillera, the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office Cordillera Administrative Region (DA–RFO CAR) and De La Salle University (DLSU) officially formalized their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on November 21 at Plaza Garden Hotel, Baguio City.

The ceremony brought together officials, researchers, and program leads from both institutions, marking the beginning of a partnership focused on innovation to strengthen the region’s agricultural sector.

Under the MOU, DA–RFO CAR and DLSU commit to collaborative studies, technical assistance, training programs, and the development of digital and science-based solutions designed to improve productivity, sustainability, and resilience among farmers in the Cordillera region.

Dr. Ronnie Concepcion, representative from De La Salle University (DLSU), emphasized the importance of the partnership, “The Department of Agriculture will play a vital role in the implementation of our initiatives, especially in identifying beneficiaries and determining suitable project sites across the region. This collaboration allows us to bring research-driven solutions directly to the communities that need them most,” said.

DA–RFO CAR officials emphasized that the collaboration is aligned with the agency’s goal of modernizing agriculture through science-driven approaches.

The event concluded with both parties hopeful that the partnership will generate transformative outcomes, foster innovation in the agricultural landscape, and ultimately improve the livelihoods of farming communities across the region.

The MOU serves as a foundation for future joint projects, including agriculture initiatives, youth engagement programs, and the development of digital tools to support farm management and decision-making.

With the formal signing completed, DA–RFO CAR and DLSU now move forward with detailed planning and implementation of the partnership’s first set of collaborative activities scheduled in the coming months. // Vincent G. Savella, Research Division

DA-CAR Press Release No. 25-220