The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) formalized its partnership with ItikPinas cooperators through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held on April 29, 2026, at the University President’s Conference Room, NEUST General Tinio Street Campus.

This initiative was implemented under a Department of Budget and Management-funded project through the CLAARRDEC Consortium which to strengthen collaboration in promoting sustainable duck production and enhancing community livelihoods.

In her message, Dr. Jean Guillasper, NEUST Vice President for Research, Extension and Training highlighted the long-standing vision behind the project.

“Matagal na naming pangarap na ma-impart ang proyektong ito upang ma-empower ang ating mga farmers—mapalakas ang production, processing, at marketing ng high-quality products, mapatatag ang local livelihood, at masiguro ang food security. Nais din nitong ipakita ang potensyal ng Philippine duck industry para sa sustainable opportunities sa ating komunidad,” she said, while expressing gratitude for the cooperation of partners and encouraging continuous coordination for effective implementation.

The project background and technical context were presented by Dr. Marilene Hipolito, Director of the Research Services Department.

Meanwhile, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo emphasized the university’s broader mission of community impact beyond academic instruction.

“Ang ating pamantasan ay hindi lamang nakatuon sa paghahasa ng kaisipan ng mag-aaral. Ang ating layunin ay maramdaman ang pamantasan sa komunidad—at ito ang tinutugunan ng ating Research and Extension Services,” she said.

The President added that the program is a “biyaya” amid global uncertainties, noting that the support extended through the project is intended to uplift communities.

“Hindi ito nagtatapos sa MOA. Ito ay tuloy-tuloy na pagtulong—pagbibigay ng teknolohiya at kaalaman upang maging mas efficient at sustainable ang pag-aalaga ng itik, at upang mas marami pa ang matulungan at umangat ang kabuhayan,” she further emphasized.

A statement of commitment was delivered by Most Rev. Prudencio Andaya Jr. CICM, D,D, Diocese of Cabanatuan, who expressed optimism about the project’s long-term impact.

“This partnership not only provides livelihood but also develops skills for the youth. Nakikita ko ang malaking potensyal nito na makatulong hindi lamang sa Nueva Ecija kundi maging sa iba pang komunidad. Itong project na ito hindi naman para sa amin sa simbahan, but it’s the people we are serving —lalo na sa mga nangangailangan,” he said, adding that the initiative may also support scholars and expand opportunities beyond the province.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Marivic Villegas, Director of the Extension Services Department, who underscored the significance of the agreement as a collective commitment toward agricultural development and community empowerment.

“Ang MOA na ito ay malinaw na pagpapahayag ng ating layunin—mapaunlad ang agrikultura, mapalakas ang komunidad, at mapahalagahan ang lokal na yaman,” she said, while acknowledging the support of partner agencies, local government units, and the DBM through the CLAARRDEC Consortium.

This agreement signifies NEUST’s continuing efforts to integrate research, extension, and community engagement, paving the way for sustainable agricultural innovation and inclusive development.

 

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