SLSU and DOST-CEST Empower Kahupian Farmers to Boost Agricultural Resilience and Food Security in Southern Leyte
As part of its institutional mandate to extend scientific knowledge and promote sustainable agricultural development, Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (DOST-CEST) Region VIII, successfully implemented the program titled “Community Empowerment through Science and Technology as a Sustainability Approach for Resiliency and Food Security” under the component Community Adoption and Capability Enhancement for Agricultural Production and Management on July 18, 2025, at the Lecture Hall of SLSU-Bontoc Campus.
The extension activity was designed to strengthen the technical capacities of local farmers, particularly the members of the Kahupian Samahang Mag-uuma Association (KASAMA), by combining science-based training with practical, field-based learning. The initiative forms part of SLSU’s broader community engagement framework that supports food security, climate-resilient agriculture, and sustainable farming systems in Southern Leyte.
The program opened with a welcome message from Dr. Gladys Pascual, Campus Director of SLSU-Bontoc, who underscored the importance of meaningful academic-community collaboration in driving rural development. It was followed by a Statement of Purpose delivered by Ms. Adelfa C. Diola, Director of Extension Services and Project Coordinator, who emphasized the role of science and technology in enhancing community-based agricultural systems. An Inspirational Message from Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, encouraged participants to adopt transformative practices through the university’s extension efforts.
The morning session included a series of structured lectures focused on key aspects of sustainable agriculture, delivered by subject matter experts. Mr. Ericjhon P. Hinayon, a Postharvest Major pursuing a Master of Science in Horticulture, discussed proper crop handling and storage techniques aimed at reducing postharvest losses. Following his presentation, Mr. Noel E. Celeste, an expert in Agricultural Development and Soil Management, led a discussion on sustainable land preparation practices, emphasizing the importance of soil conservation for long-term agricultural productivity. Additionally, Mr. Gladwin B. Goc-ong Jr., a Plant Pathologist, addressed pest and disease management, focusing on the identification and biological control of plant diseases to ensure optimal crop health.
The afternoon session transitioned from lecture to application through a Field Demonstration and Site Visit, facilitated by SLSU-Bontoc Agriculture students. The hands-on activity featured the formulation and use of organic fertilizers and pesticides, providing farmer-participants with concrete exposure to ecologically sustainable farming techniques.
This initiative reflects SLSU’s commitment to delivering science-based, community-centered, and development-focused extension services. It aligns with the university’s goals of supporting inclusive agricultural innovation. It contributes to the realization of key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Through sustained collaboration with agencies such as the DOST-CEST Region VIII and the active participation of faculty, students, and local farming communities, SLSU continues to catalyze rural transformation, promote agricultural sustainability, and enhance community resilience in the province of Southern Leyte.
