The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) participated in the on-site evaluation and visit for the 2026 National Search for Best Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Community on October 12, 2026, at the Municipal Hall of Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija.

The evaluation focused on the project titled “Empowering and Developing SMART-READY Central Luzon Communities through Sustainable Science and Technology Solutions (Solar Irrigation Trailer Unit),” implemented by NEUST in 2024 through funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The Municipality of Cuyapo, one of the project’s beneficiary communities, nominated the initiative for this year’s national search.

The DOST National Evaluators assessed the project’s implementation, impact, and sustainability as Cuyapo vied for recognition as one of the country’s best CEST communities.

During the evaluation, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora R. Jugo, together with DOST Region III Regional Director Dr. Julius Caesar Sicat, DOST Nueva Ecija Provincial Director Dr. Leidi Mel Sicat, and officials of the Cuyapo Local Government Unit (LGU) led by Mayor Jose Santiago Hidalgo Jr., discussed the project’s contributions to its beneficiaries, the university’s continuing efforts to monitor and maintain the equipment, and opportunities to expand science- and technology-driven innovations in agribusiness. These included initiatives being considered for the university’s forthcoming Nampicuan Campus.

Project Leader Elmer Espiritu, a faculty member of the NEUST College of Engineering, highlighted the university and project team’s continued assistance to beneficiaries in maintaining the Solar Irrigation Trailer Unit and maximizing its potential to support agricultural activities.

Regional Director Sicat also underscored NEUST’s capability to develop science and technology solutions, including its work on micro-hydro turbines through its own design and fabrication initiatives.

During the evaluation, panelist Lowell James Cornejo, Chief of the Partnership Building Section of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program National Program Management Office, emphasized the importance of involving multiple stakeholders in government-funded initiatives to strengthen their long-term impact.

“Importante sa government projects na hindi lamang si LGU ang involved, but other stakeholders as well, para mas maging holistic ang approach to ensure the sustainability of the project, and I’m glad na nakita [natin] ito,” he said.

Other members of the evaluation panel were Alexis Lapiz, Director of the Administration, Financial, and Management Service of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC); former DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña; former Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) Director Celia Elum; and former Science Education Institute (SEI) Director Josette Biyo.

Representing NEUST during the activity were President Jugo; Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training Dr. Jean Guillasper; Extension Services Director Dr. Marivic Villegas; College of Engineering Dean Jeric Aduna; Project Leader Elmer Espiritu; project members Jay-Ar Vicente and Ronnel Fabia; and other members of the university delegation.

The project’s inclusion in the national search highlights NEUST’s role in translating science and technology into practical solutions that empower communities, support local farmers, and promote sustainable agricultural development through collaboration with government partners and beneficiaries.

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