1. Research in Education Compendium 2021-2024

Dr. Sema G. Dilna, President of Cotabato State University (CSU), together with University Office of Research Programs (ORP) Director Dr. Tarhata S. Guiamalon, ICU Director Armia K. Dilna, Dr. Raffeq S. Alim, Executive Assistant of the VP for Research, Extension, Development, and Resource Generation, and Braheem S. Guiamalon, ORP Administrative Staff, represented Cotabato State University (CSU) at the 37th Founding Anniversary of the SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC).

The celebration, held on January 28, 2025, at the USM Commercial Building, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, Cotabato, carried the theme: “SOXAARRDEC @37: AANR R&D, Innovation, and Technology Transfer for Stronger Partnerships and Sustainable Future.”

The program featured key highlights, including a keynote speech, director’s report, and various messages of support from esteemed leaders of SOXAARRDEC member institutions. The event celebrated the consortium’s milestones in advancing agricultural, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) research and technology transfer, fostering partnerships, and driving sustainable development.

CSU remains committed to strengthening collaborations within the consortium and contributing to impactful research initiatives that benefit the region and beyond.

Dr. Tarhata S. Guiamalon, Research Director of Cotabato State University (CSU), together with Dr. Raffeq S. Alim, Executive Assistant of the VP for Research, Extension, Development, and Resource Generation, attended the SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC) 1st Quarter Research and Development (R&D) Cluster Meeting for CY 2025 held on January 16, 2025, at the USMARDC Auditorium, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, Cotabato.

The meeting focused on crafting the roadmap for regional priority commodities and preparing the 2024 Annual Report. It began with the presentation of highlights from the previous meeting and proceeded with discussions led by SOXAARRDEC leaders, including Consortium Director Dr. Julius Jerome G. Ele and R&D Cluster Coordinator Dr. Tamie C. Solpot.

Among the agenda were updates on the USMart-TB1 project, initiatives from the Bureau of Soils and Water Management, and the development of the AANR Compendium. The participants also discussed plans for the consortium’s 2nd R&D Cluster Meeting for CY 2025.

Dr. Guiamalon and Dr. Alim represented CSU by sharing the university’s R&D accomplishments for CY 2024 and actively participating in the discussions. Their presence emphasized CSU’s commitment to advancing research and development in the region.

The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of collaboration and commitment among the consortium members to strengthen research initiatives across SOCCSKSARGEN.
// ALG

In a bid to strengthen research and collaboration in agriculture and fisheries development, Cotabato State University (CSU) and the Agriculture and Fisheries Resource, Research, and Extension for Development Network (AFRREDN) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at Agua Frio Resort, Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Koronadal City.

The ceremonial signing, held on February 20, 2025, was attended by key officials from CSU and other state universities and colleges, government agencies, and private education institutions in Region XII. With CSU President Prof. Dr. Sema G. Dilna were Dr. Tarhata S. Guiamalon, Assoc. Prof. Armia K. Dilna, Assoc. Prof. Paidsa T. Hamid, Asst. Prof. Rhanest Tilendo, and Dr. Raffeg S. Alim.

The partnership aims to promote research initiatives that benefit both academic and farming communities, foster innovation and sustainability in agricultural and fisheries development, and enhance extension and collaboration efforts in the sector.

Under the MOU, CSU and AFRREDN will collaborate on research and development projects, extension services, and capacity-building programs that will benefit farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders in the agriculture and fisheries sector.

“We are committed to fostering innovation and sustainability in agricultural and fisheries development through strategic partnerships,” said CSU President Dilna. “This partnership with AFRREDN will enable us to strengthen our research and extension programs and contribute to the growth and development of the agriculture and fisheries sector in Region 12.”

With this partnership, CSU, DA-12, and BFAR are poised to make a significant impact on the agriculture and fisheries sector in Region 12, promoting sustainable development and improving the lives of farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders.