The Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) Program held a coordination meeting on June 10, 2024, at the New Building Board Room of Northeastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU). The activity gathered project leaders, staff, and representatives from partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to review semi-annual accomplishments, discuss fund utilization, and prepare for the upcoming TTPD-PCAARRD Monitoring and Evaluation Visit.

The meeting commenced with a prayer led by Dr. Ivy Diaz (NEMSU-IPTBM) and the acknowledgment of participants by Ms. Lyka Labiano (CSU-IPTBM). Dr. Rolly G. Salvaleon, NEMSU’s Vice President for Research and Extension, delivered the welcome message, followed by an overview of the agenda presented by RAISE Program Leader Prof. Kenneth L. Ciudad.

Key Discussions and Presentations

The session opened with updates on budget realignment and reprogramming, facilitated by Engr. Luzminda Bacquial (NEMSU). Clarifications were made regarding MOA-based financial adjustments, distinguishing between realignment (within 30%) and reprogramming (requiring PCAARRD approval).

Each project leader then presented their semi-annual reports:

Engr. Bacquial (NEMSU-IPTBM) reported progress on IP filings and proposed the crafting of a Spinoff Policy to harmonize institutional procedures.

Dr. Rodel Oclaret (ASSCAT-IPTBM) highlighted their finalized Operations Manual, IP applications, and 40% fund utilization, as well as plans for improved connectivity through StarLink.

Prof. Ciudad (CSU-IPTBM) presented CSU’s Q3 updates, emphasizing copyright tracking, proper documentation, and advisory support from PCAARRD.

Mr. Genesis Cutamora (Agribusiness Hub) discussed pre-commercialization activities, partnership tracking, and fund utilization, proposing workshops involving SUCs and student practicums.

Mr. Melbert Bonotan (ATBI) emphasized commercialization strategies, including spinoff pathways and establishing a product display center.

Ms. Meycel Amarille (Knowledge Management Hub) provided updates on logo trademark filing and IEC material development.

The group also reviewed fund utilization rates, noting strong progress across all projects, with KMH leading at 59%.

Strategic Planning and Agreements

In preparation for the PCAARRD M&E visit (July 1–5, 2024), members finalized the proposed site itinerary and discussed logistics. Other matters included reimbursement protocols for agricultural supplies, plans to showcase technologies to investors, and agreements on RAISE logo co-ownership, with CSU as the primary applicant.

The team also emphasized the development of activity designs for official communications and ensuring coordination among all Consortia Member Institutions (CMIs).

The meeting concluded at 3:49 PM, with reminders to share official invitations and documentation between CSU, NEMSU, and ASSCAT for reference and coordination.

via: Angelica Labiano - PTA II, RAISE IPTBM