Agriculture students from Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) showcased their expertise in organic farming as they represented the university at the Third Regional Kabataang OA (Organic Agriculture) Quiz Bee 2024, held on November 4 at the Regional Training Center 8 (ATI-RTC8) in Visayas State University, Baybay City.

SLSU was represented by Mr. Aldrin Abrea and Mr. Joriz Xandre Ladores both from SLSU-Hinunangan Campus, with Ms. Judea Loui Marfil joining from Bontoc Campus. Under the mentorship of Ms. Ana Mae Aquino and Ms. Christselda Membreve from the Department of Agriculture and Technology, the team demonstrated a strong command of organic agriculture principles, competing against students
from various colleges and universities across the region.

Despite fierce competition, Mr. Abrea secured 4th place, adding to SLSU’s growing reputation for academic excellence and commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

The quiz bee coincided with the nationwide celebration of Organic Agriculture Month, as established under Presidential Proclamation No. 1030, s. 2015. This observance underscores the importance of promoting the industrialization and full employment of Filipinos through sound agricultural development while advocating for the widespread adoption of organic farming practices.

As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting agricultural education and skills development, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 8 has conducted numerous initiatives, including training sessions, seminars, and technical briefings tailored for both farmers and young agricultural enthusiasts. Launched in 2019, the “Search for Kabataang OA” aimed to encourage youth
participation and culminated in a notable third-place victory at the national level. The competition took a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, resuming last year with renewed vigor and the goal of preparing students to represent Region 8 on the national stage.

Centered around the theme “Kabuhayang OA, Kinabukasang OK! PGS Pinalakas para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the 2024 competition emphasized the integration of Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) in bolstering the country’s organic agriculture framework. This aligns with SLSU’s institutional mission of nurturing globally competitive individuals committed to sustainable development and aligns with the university’s dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and zero hunger (SDG 2).

By participating in events like the Regional Kabataang OA Quiz Bee, SLSU continues to reinforce its commitment to producing future-ready graduates who contribute to the enhancement of local and
national agricultural sustainability.

Southern Leyte State University-Hinunangan (SLSU-Hinunangan), through the Campus Information and Analytics System (CISA) Office, led by Mr. Jonathan Pasayan, held a training-workshop on the RIES Management Information System (RIES-MIS) at the Multipurpose Academic Building. The event marked a major step in the university's ongoing efforts to streamline research and extension processes, aligning with its goals of advancing innovation and efficiency.

The hybrid event was attended by a diverse group of SLSU-Hinunangan faculty members, including regular and visiting instructors, who gathered both in person and online to engage in the workshop. The training aimed to familiarize faculty with the newly developed system that promises to revolutionize the way research and extension documents are submitted, reviewed, and approved.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Ian A. Navarrete, Head of Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES), expressed his excitement about the introduction of the RIES-MIS. "This information system will smoothen the flow of submissions and approvals for research and extension-related documents," Dr. Navarrete said, highlighting the significance of this new platform in enhancing the overall efficiency of academic and research activities on campus.

Mr. Tamar Mejia Jr., Head of the RIES Information Systems, further elaborated the essence of the event on his statement of purpose. He explained that the RIES-MIS is specifically designed to enhance decision-making processes and streamline operations. "This system will not only facilitate easier submission of documents but will also provide access to essential research data across the university system," Mr. Mejia said. He emphasized that the platform would help faculty members focus more on their research and extension activities by reducing administrative hurdles.

The resource speaker for the training, Mr. Jerald Tomboc, the RIES-MIS Programmer, conducted the workshop via Zoom. Despite being online, Mr. Tomboc meticulously guided the attendees through the system’s functionalities, demonstrating how faculty members can submit their research papers for review and approval by RIES coordinators or the department head. His presentation also included step-by-step tutorials on navigating the system, making the session highly practical and interactive.

The core of this training workshop extends beyond mere technical proficiency. By empowering faculty with efficient tools for managing research outputs, the university is also strengthening its commitment to its vision of being a leading institution in research and innovation. The RIES-MIS aligns with SLSU’s goal to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. By optimizing research management, SLSU is ensuring that its faculty can contribute to sustainable development initiatives more effectively, cultivating innovation and collaboration across disciplines.

For the institution, the RIES-MIS represents a major step in advancing its research and extension agenda. With faster and more organized processes, the university is poised to produce more impactful research outputs, elevate academic standards, and contribute to local and global knowledge generation. Faculty members, in turn, benefit from the ease and clarity the system offers, allowing them to dedicate more time to critical research endeavors that align with the university's strategic goals.

The successful implementation of the RIES-MIS is expected to have far-reaching effects, creating a more collaborative and streamlined environment for research, ultimately driving the university closer to its vision of academic excellence and community engagement.

The Southern Leyte State University – Hinunangan (SLSU-Hinunangan), through the Department of Agribusiness, recently held a "Financial Literacy Training for Farmers and Fishermen" in St. Bernard, Southern Leyte. The training, held from October 15 to 18, 2024, aimed to equip local farmers and fishermen with vital financial management skills, empowering them to make informed economic decisions in their daily lives.

The initiative is part of the university's Extension Program AMUMA (Advancing Monetary Understanding and Management), which cultivates stronger ties between the academe and local communities by promoting financial literacy and sustainable livelihood practices. The training was made possible through a formal partnership between SLSU and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of St. Bernard, represented by Mayor Edito L. Mutlig and University President Dr. Jude A. Duarte, following a signed agreement to support the community's financial education efforts.

A team of faculty members, led by Dr. Jacinto Baclayon, Program Head of Agribusiness, and Extension Coordinator Mr. Dario Aledro, were joined by student officers of the Business Innovator's Guild (BIG) to deliver the training across 20 barangays, including Magatas, Himabangan, Guinsaugon, Bantawon, and Bolodbolod, among others. The hands-on training provided participants with essential financial planning techniques, bookkeeping skills, and practical strategies for managing small-scale enterprises, which are crucial for improving their economic sustainability.

During the training, Mr. Aledro highlighted the importance of financial literacy, saying, "Understanding basic financial concepts is not just about earning more; it’s about ensuring that every peso works for you. For our farmers and fishermen, it can mean the difference between struggling and thriving."

BIG President Cris Marrie Joy Peru expressed her pride in participating in the extension project. "It’s heartwarming to know that we can give back to communities in such meaningful ways. As agribusiness students, we see firsthand how financial education can empower our farmers and fishermen to make better decisions, ensuring their families' well-being for generations to come."

This initiative stresses the university's commitment to community development and aligns with the global goals of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By equipping local stakeholders with critical financial knowledge, SLSU contributes to the broader vision of building sustainable communities and improving livelihoods through education and capacity-building programs.

Southern Leyte State University remains steadfast in its mission of nation-building and community empowerment. This financial literacy training marks another step in SLSU’s ongoing efforts to uplift local communities and support economic resilience, especially in rural areas.

This program is a demonstration to the university’s dedication to creating lasting impacts beyond the classroom, working hand in hand with local government units, students, and communities to advance collective growth and development.

SLSU-Hinunangan marked the conclusion of its 124th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) celebration with the Gandilan Awards 2024 and a team-building event for faculty and staff at Kalinao Beach Resort, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte, on October 7, 2024.

The Gandilan Awards recognized exemplary employees for their dedication and service, reflecting the university’s commitment to excellence in public service.

PEARLY WHITE AWARD
- Saludsod, Mary Beth

BACKPACKER AWARD
- Ian Navarrete

FACELIFTER AWARD
- Charisse Ann Bugais-Pagobo

MOUNTAIN MOVER AWARD
- John Paul Gapasin
- Jonathan Pasayan

CLIFF JUMPER AWARD
- Wade C. Lim, MPM-LGD

SLSU ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
- Ian Navarrete

Campus Extra Mile Awardees
- Leslie Anne C. Caberte, CPA
- Glen Zimore E. Valerio
- Rubie P. Cuenco
- Chanson Angelica C. Dela Cruz
- Charisse Ann B. Pagobo
- Elica Marie Libutan
- Arch. Chris Jirah E. Molita
- Marcos E. Ecle
- James Vincent Caingcoy

Loyalty Awardees
- Danilo A. Balili - 30yrs.
- Engr. Carol Ann C. Orias - 25 yrs.
- Engr. Irvin Lito Napala - 25 yrs.
- Dr. Mary Beth T. Saludsod - 20 yrs.

Following the awards, the faculty and staff participated in a team-building activity, cultivating collaboration and camaraderie in a relaxed setting.

The event capped off the month-long celebration of civil service, highlighting the importance of teamwork and unity within the SLSU community.