Dr. Carlito P. Laurean, Vice-President for Research & Extension of Benguet State University (BSU) and Director of the Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD) was bestowed the Pantas Award during the S&T Awards and Recognition Ceremony held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City.
The ceremony was held in commemoration of the 8th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The Pantas Award recognizes outstanding scientists/researchers and research administrators.
Likewise recognized was the Visayas State University (VSU) through the Tanglaw Awards, which honor laudable research institutions.
Laurean was recognized for his leadership in research and extension at BSU and the Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD), particularly towards the development of agriculture and natural resources in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).
Laurean continues to strengthen the strategic alliance and enhance the collaboration and cooperation between CorCAARRD and the Regional RDE Network. He has also enabled BSU to generate increased external funds for RDE, and produce, verify, and commercialize technologies that contributed to the income of the University and the improvement of farmers’ socio-economic well-being. His effort addresses concerns on food security amidst the emerging effects of climate change.
On the other hand, VSU was able to generate a budget of more than ₱1.2 billion for R&D, resulting in 154 technologies/significant information which have enormously contributed to Region VIII and the country’s economy.
VSU has implemented innovative researches and projects on environment protection and biodiversity conservation leading to higher yield of agroforestry crops such as cacao, pomelo, jackfruit, bamboo, and root crops. The technologies of VSU are creating impacts in terms of improving farmers’ socioeconomic well-being and contributing to food security.