ESO Pays Courtesy Visit to Manobo’s Punong Barangay; Conducts Needs Assessment

MAGPET, COTABATO— Following the strategic partnership meeting with Energy Development Corporation (EDC) on May 22, 2026, in Kidapawan City, the Extension Services Office (ESO) headed to Brgy. Manobo, Magpet, Cotabato, for a courtesy visit and community needs assessment aimed to identify grassroots challenges and establish collaborative, sustainable development programs for the locals.

Prior to the visit, ESO Director Dr. Glyn B. Gabano-Magbanua met with National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) XII Provincial Officer Joyce Monique J. Mondragon. The meeting is part of the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) and cultural protocol process before entering the IP community.

Alongside Anamarie B. Uyangurin (Monitoring and Impact Assessment Unit Head), Ritchel O. Torres (Training Specialist II), Rahima A. Cabunto (Education Program Specialist I), Diether M. Barro (Extension Staff), Jimwell P. Pande (Extension Editor), Arnabie A. Murray (Project Staff), and Felicity Feliciano (Project Staff), ESO Director Magbanua paid a courtesy visit to Punong Barangay Ruth Pelonio-Federe.

The visit transitioned into the actual community needs assessment, revealing the need for documenting Obo-Manovo’s language, songs, and dances.

“Nakikita niyo naman po na ang paggawa ng walis ang isa sa mga ikinabubuhay namin, pero marami rin po kami ritong mga abaca na kailangan lang i-industrialize,” added Councilor Roldan P. Pelonio.

A demonstration of soft broom crafting followed the activity, facilitated by community members.

“Malaki po talaga ‘yung maitutulong ng Tahiti Depollinator machine sa paggawa ng walis kasi nakita namin na hindi pala ganun kadali ang process,” emphasized Director Magbanua.

The day-long activity concluded with the team identifying the need for family planning interventions as the community faces challenges on early marriage and pregnancy. Additionally, a rich biodiversity rests in the community, calling for wildlife protection and resource conservation.

The conducted courtesy visit and community needs assessment underscored USM’s commitment to community empowerment and inclusive extension services. With the team learning the challenges and needs of the community, ESO is set to craft tailored and long-term interventions that prioritize both the welfare and sustainable growth of the Obo-Manovo communities.