SLSU- DOST CEST Program brings farming support to KASAMA farmers in Brgy. Kahupian

On January 21, 2026, a team from Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), through the DOST-Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (DOST-CEST) Program, conducted a field visit to Barangay Kahupian to distribute essential farming materials to members of the Kahupian Samahang Mag-uuma Association (KASAMA). The activity was implemented in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology and aimed to strengthen farmer cooperation, improve agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices in the area.

 

The program opened with an orientation led by Ms. Adelfa Diola, Project Coordinator, followed by a briefing on the line-up of program activities to be implemented for the beneficiaries. The discussion was facilitated by Mr. Noel Celeste, Activity Leader and faculty member of SLSU–Bontoc Campus. The activity was attended by the officers and selected members of KASAMA.

 

One of the highlights of the discussion was the emphasis on the vital role of unity and teamwork in farming activities. The speakers underscored that collective effort is essential to achieving better harvests, strengthening the organization, and sustaining long-term development initiatives. The team also encouraged the farmers to remain actively involved in organization-led programs and to uphold their responsibilities as members and partners in development.

 

An open forum followed, allowing the farmers to voice their concerns, ask questions, and offer suggestions on farming practices and organizational matters. The exchange fostered open communication between the organizers and the farmers and helped identify practical issues that will guide future extension and technology-transfer activities under the program.

 

​The activity concluded with renewed cooperation and shared commitment among the participants. More than the distribution of materials, the visit strengthened institutional and community partnerships, promoted shared responsibility, and reaffirmed the commitment of both SLSU and the KASAMA farmers to sustainable agricultural development in Barangay Kahupian.

 

​The initiative contributes directly to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by supporting smallholder farmers, enhancing food security, and encouraging environmentally sound agricultural practices.

 

​Through initiatives such as this, SLSU continues to advance its mandate of community engagement by combining technical assistance with participatory development approaches, contributing to the realization of the SDGs and to the building of resilient and productive farming communities across Southern Leyte.