BFAR, DA Visit USM to Address Fisheries Challenges, Cold Storage Advancements
February 13, 2025
On February 12, 2025, the University of Southern Mindanao Agricultural Research and Development Center (USMARDC) marked a significant milestone by celebrating its 49th anniversary in a joint event with the Philippine Industrial Crops Research Institute (PICRI), which commemorated its 39th anniversary. The event was held at the USMARDC Auditorium in Kabacan, Cotabato, and brought together research and agricultural experts, stakeholders, and local government officials.
With the theme “Strengthening Research, Empowering Communities: A Celebration of USM’s Collective Contributions,” the event highlighted the institutions’ long-standing commitment to advancing research aimed at poverty reduction and sustainable community development.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Jurhamid C. Imlan, Director of USMARDC, emphasized USM’s significant research achievements and their impact on the agricultural sector.
Several dignitaries graced the event, including Dr. Amalia J. Datucan, who represented Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza; Hon. Jonathan M. Tabara, Board Member of the Province of Cotabato; former PICRI director Prof. Harem C. Roca; and former USMARDC directors Dr. Pablito Pamplona, Dr. Romulo L. Cena, Dr. Demetrio V. Oria, and Dr. Efren E. Magulama. Each delivered messages acknowledging the remarkable progress of PICRI and USMARDC, from their establishment to their present contributions in research and development.
In her speech, Dr. Datucan commended PICRI and USMARDC for their integral role in advancing agricultural research and supporting farmers’ development.
“This event is more than just a commemoration—it is a celebration of USM’s many accomplishments. These two institutions have consistently delivered their best efforts in the agricultural sector,” she remarked.
She further urged the institutions to integrate an economic perspective into their research initiatives.
“As you conduct research and empower communities, always integrate the economic aspect into every technical undertaking. That is the only way farmers will realize that the right technology can truly bring them profit,” she added, relaying a message from the Governor’s Office.
The event was also attended by representatives from the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 12; the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), represented by SOXAARRDEC; the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) 12; the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) 12; the Department of Science and Technology Region 12 (DOST 12); the DA-Philippine Rubber Research Institute (DA-PRRI); the Philippine Carabao Center at USM (PCC-USM); the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); the Bureau of Plant Industry – National Seed Quality Control Services (BPI-NSQCS) Chief for Regions 12 and BARMM; and the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, along with Far East Cooperative.
Also present was Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, Vice President of Research, Development & Extension, who represented the OIC President of USM, along with directors of RDE Units.
This momentous event was more than just a celebration of milestones—it reaffirmed the institutions’ commitment to excellence in research and community empowerment while honoring the hard work of farmers. It also served as a platform to reflect on past achievements, strengthen collaborations, and pave the way for future innovations in industrial crops and agricultural research.
