The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office No. VIII has turned-over Php 637,000.00 to Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), finalizing the funding for a transformative community empowerment project. This initiative, titled "STI Interventions to Marginalized Community of BLGU Uson, Calbiran," is designed to uplift local farmers through the strategic application of science, technology and innovation.

The funds will facilitate the acquisition of critical equipment to enhance value-added processing for calamansi products in Uson, Calbiran. This investment directly supports the Caibiran Association of Diversified Farmers (CADFA), a 20-member cooperative struggling with limited access to modern processing technologies despite abundant calamansi harvests. By enabling the production of high-value products like Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Calamansi Juice and Calamansi Concentrate, the project represents a weaving of worthiness, intertwining community needs with innovative solutions to unlock greater market potential and boost farmer incomes.

“This funding will go a long way in empowering our partner communities through science, technology, and innovation, true to our mission of making BiPSU’s expertise and resources accessible to those who need them most,” expressed University President Prof. Víctor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD, CHRP.

As part of DOST’s Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program, this initiative reflects a holistic approach to rural development. It fosters collaboration between BiPSU, the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Biliran, local government units, and CADFA, ensuring that academic expertise aligns with grassroots needs. The project also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Set to launch in October 2025 and conclude by September 2026, the 12-month project requires BiPSU to submit regular progress reports and complete liquidation documents within 30 days of completion, ensuring transparency. This strategic partnership promises to significantly enhance the livelihoods of Uson’s farmers by equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed for a sustainable, prosperous future.

The turn over was held on August 13, 2025 at the Office of the University President attended by Romeo L. Dignos, Provincial S&T Director Biliran-PSTO; Ma. Catherine G. Maniba, Supervising Science Research Specialist of Biliran-PSTO; Ellen Joyce N. Lagariza, Science Research Specialist II of Biliran-PSTO; Nicka V. Salentes, SRS I of Biliran-PSTO; Vilma P. Gayrama, Chairperson of BiPSU Biliran Campus Extension Services Office; Christian Ulysses G. Cagasan, Coordinator of BiPSU Biliran Campus School of Agribusiness and Forest Resource Management; and Mr. Jeffrey Espinazo, President of the Caibiran Association of Diversified Farmers.

This strategic partnership between DOST, BiPSU, and local stakeholders is poised to transform the livelihoods of Uson’s farmers by equipping them with cutting-edge tools and knowledge. By fostering innovation and collaboration, the project not only enhances the calamansi industry but also sets a model for sustainable rural development across the region.

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