USM Extension Services Office and ICON-SP Conduct Environmental Scanning and Needs Assessment in Arakan

The University of Southern Mindanao Extension Services Office (USM-ESO), in partnership with the Inter-Cultural Organizations’ Network for Solidarity and Peace (ICON-SP), conducted an environmental scanning and needs assessment for a potential extension project on January 15, 2025, at Sitio Lomonday, Ganatan, Arakan, Cotabato.

Hon. Allan Otti Sr., the barangay chairman of Barangay Ganatan, represented the 34 displaced families of Sitio Lomonday. The event was attended by representatives from the USM Extension Services Office, faculty members from the College of Trades and Industry—Prof. Joel Misanes, Prof. Julbasar Sajiran, Prof. Marjorie Catuguran, and Prof. Samson Rapusa—and ICON-SP representatives, Rhodel Berang and Flor Lintao.

Prof. Joel Misanes facilitated the discussions on community needs, including the installation of water and electricity systems and addressing sanitation concerns. Long-term plans, such as implementing livelihood programs to support the daily sustenance of residents, were also outlined to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the proposed extension projects.

Accompanied by the ESO staff, Ritchel O. Torres and Rey John O. Cortez, Profs. Misanes and Sajiran conducted a thorough assessment of the materials needed for the project. These included equipment for water and electricity systems, construction of individual comfort rooms, sewing machines, and agricultural inputs such as calamansi seedlings and vegetable seeds.

Barangay Captain Otti expressed his gratitude on behalf of the displaced families to USM and ICON-SP for selecting their community as a prospective partner. He emphasized the project’s potential to improve the quality of life for the residents of Sitio Lomonday.

This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to empowering the community and addressing its most pressing needs, paving the way for sustainable development in the area.