Dr JJG Takes Over as SOXAARRDEC Director in Formal Handover Ceremony

In a significant event marking a new chapter for the SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC), Dr. Josephine R. Migalbin, the outgoing director, ceremonially passed the key of responsibility to Dr. Julius Jerome G. Ele, the new director. The event was held at the University of Southern Mindanao Agricultural Research and Development Center (USMARDC), USM, on August 19, 2024, in a ceremony organized by the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Extension (RDE) and SOXAARRDEC staff.

The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, Vice President of RDE; Dr. Ma. Teodora N. Cabasan, Director of the Research Publication Services Office (RPSO); Dr. Glyn G. Magbanua, Director of the Extension Services Office (ESO); Dr. Lydia C. Pascual, Director of the Research Development Office (RDO); Dr. Jalaloden B. Marohom, Director of the Intellectual Property Technology Transfer Business Development Office (IPTTBDO); and SOXAARDEC Cluster Coordinators Dr. Lawrence Anthony U. Dollente from Science Communication Cluster and Dr. Eugene G. Ranjo, from Information Communication Technology (ICT).

Prior to the formal handover, a send-off program was held, where leaders and staff members delivered heartfelt farewell messages to Dr. Migalbin. They acknowledged her three years of dedicated service and her significant contributions to SOXAARRDEC’s success.

Dr. Migalbin reflected on her tenure, saying, “For three years, it has been very fulfilling. It was a very exciting journey for me. Wala talagang forever… People come and go, but the office will, of course, remain.”

To conclude the ceremony, Dr. Migalbin officially welcomed Dr. Ele and challenged him to elevate SOXAARRDEC’s standing from the top 6 to the top 3 in UGNAYAN.

“To the new director, I know it’s quite challenging, but it is a very worthwhile goal to achieve,” she advised.

On the other hand, Dr. Julius expressed his commitment, stating, “I will uphold the vision, mission, and core values of SOXAARRDEC. I will do my best to accomplish as much or more than during my time in the College of Agriculture (CA).”

In his final remarks, he called for assistance as he embarks on his new role as director and emphasized the importance of communication, encouragement, trust, and confidence in working with consortium members to fulfill SOXAARRDEC’s goals.