Forging Ties: MAARRDEC's Learning Visit to CorCAARRD and BSU Research Centers

On April 8, 2025, the MiMaRoPa Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (MAARRDEC) conducted a learning visit to the Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD) and various research and extension centers of Benguet State University (BSU).

The MAARRDEC delegation, together with its Consortium Member Institutions (CMIs)—DOST-MIMAROPA, Romblon State University (RSU), Mindoro State University (MarSU), Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC), Western Philippines University (WPU), Palawan State University (PSU), the Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI), and Mindoro State University (MinSU)—was warmly welcomed by Dr. Nordalyn Pedroche, Deputy Consortium Director of CorCAARRD, and the consortium secretariat.

As the newest consortium established in the country and in the MIMAROPA region, MAARRDEC continues to strengthen its capacity in managing agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources research and development initiatives. Funded by the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) and based at Occidental Mindoro State College, MAARRDEC is led by Consortium Director Dr. Ronaldo G. Orpiano.

The learning visit provided the MAARRDEC delegation with an opportunity to observe CorCAARRD's management practices, programs, and activities. The CorCAARRD team presented its best practices and actively engaged with the delegation during an open forum, allowing both consortia to exchange experiences and insights.