For the second time, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has recognized Northwest Samar State University’s commitment to agricultural innovation by awarding a PHP 4.992 million grant from the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF) for the upgrade of its food processing facility through an official signing of the grant agreement.
The grant agreement was signed by representatives from the two institutions: Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of DA and Head, ACEF Executive Committee, and Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, President of NwSSU. The project, led by Ms. Maria Norfrelij J. Cuadra, Program Chairperson of the BS Food Technology (BSFT) program, intends to strengthen agricultural research that would be of great advantage to local farmers and fisherfolk through the boosting of innovation in food technology. It will enhance NwSSU’s capacity to deliver frontline advanced trainings and research on food processing, while designing and implementing sustainable practices that will lift regional economic growth.
Ms. Cuadra with her co-project leaders, Dr. Rosalia L. Briones, Dr. Lorelie F. Tangaran, Ms. Nelissa A. Sudaria, and Ms. Maria Joana T. Nicolas, will oversee the upgrade of the food processing facility, including renovations, procurement of essential equipment, and the development of an operational manual. This falls with the thrust of DA in empowering rural communities through new opportunities and increased productivity for the agricultural sector in Samar.
The entire NwSSU community extends heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Norfrelij Cuadra and her co-project leaders to their leadership in bringing this project to realization. This endeavor not only strengthens NwSSU’s infrastructure but also solidifies its role as a catalyst for growth and resilience within Samar’s agricultural sector. NwSSU also expresses its deep gratitude to the DA and ACEF Executive Committee for this invaluable opportunity.