The ASIST Bamboo Project Team actively participated in the Regional Bamboo Meeting/Planning Cum GIS & Drone Mapping, a strategic gathering of CARSUCs (CAR State Universities and Colleges) focused on strengthening technical capacity in GIS and drone technologies to support bamboo resource planning, environmental monitoring, and sustainable development.
ASIST delegation was led by Dr. Nero M. Paderes, Director of AFTIICC; Melinda S. Redona; For. Nover T. Matso; For. Carlito M. Daodaoen Jr.; Petronilo D. Elvena; and Mary Rose O. Casigay.
The Team made a courtesy call to Dr. Maria Christina Z. Manicad, ASC Director for Research and Development and Special Projects, and Dr. Ronald O. Ocampo, ASC Vice President for Academics, Research and Development, and Extension Services. They then conducted a benchmarking activity at the ASC Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub located at the ASC-Payanan Site. Afterward, the team visited the ASC Bamboo Plantation Area, where they gained insights into bamboo cultivation practices implemented by ASC. then visit Food Processing Center, where they experienced ASC’s local innovations such as the Rice-Mongo "Bigba".
This GIS Drone Mapping hands-on training enhanced the team's ability to apply geospatial tools in planning bamboo-based projects and fostered collaboration with other institutions including Apayao State College (ASC), Benguet State University (BSU), Ifugao State University (IFSU), Kalinga State University (KSU), Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC).
Aside from technical sessions, the ASIST team joined the One CARASUC Bamboo Tree Planting activity in Kabugao, Apayao, and witnessed the Signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Regional CARASUC Bamboo Team, Apayao PENRO, the Department of Tourism, and the local barangay, marking a shared commitment to bamboo development and environmental sustainability.
This meaningful participation was made possible through the strong support of ASIST President Gregorio T. Turqueza Jr. and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Noel B. Begnalen, as ASIST continues to promote innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in the region.
