ECHAGUE, Isabela — In a grand celebration of 45 years of dedicated service to research and development, Isabela State University (ISU) joins the Consortium Member Institutions (CMIs) in the celebration of the 45th Founding Anniversary of the Cagayan Valley Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (CVAARRD) on December 19, 2023, at the ISU –Climate Change Building.
This year’s Founding Anniversary aired with the theme, “Unlocking Potential: Liberalizing the Utilization of R&D/E Results for Modernized and Science-Based Innovations in Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources.”.
Gracing this year’s anniversary was Dr. Teodoro M. Gatchalian, Undersecretary for Special Concerns of the Department of Science and Technology, who lauded CVAARRD for its outstanding achievements.
“These are just a glimpse your consortium has achieved; this will serve as an advocative call to for future farmers and fishermen. A reminder that the most outstanding consortium in the country is expected from you. (CVAARRD)”, Dr. Gatchalian said.
Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, ISU President and Chairperson of the CVAARRD Consortium, commended CVAARRD’s role in shaping the landscape of research and development.
“Today’s celebration is a testament to the dedication of researchers, scientists, stakeholders, and the entire CVAARRD community who have relentlessly worked towards unlocking the vast potential that lies within the realms of research and development.”, Dr. Aquino said.
Dr. Aquino also encouraged the CMIs to continue its clinch for the Ugnay Award, the country’s most coveted award for most outstanding research consortium, to draw its entry into the Hall of Fame.
CVAARRD under the stewardship of the Isabela State University was able to garner 8 Ugnay Awards as of 2022, with 1 more to be shortlisted into the Hall of Fame.
The event continued with the comprehensive CVAARRD Accomplishment Report of 2023, presented by Dr. Miladis M. Afidchao, CVAARRD Director.
It highlighted the journey and commitment to innovation and development that have guided CVAARRD throughout its long history. As told by Dr. Afidchao, this year reflected the consortium’s dedication to breaking barriers and liberating the full potential of research and development outcomes, ushering in a new era of modernization in agriculture, aquatic sciences, and natural resources.
Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, Executive Director of DOST-PCAARRD who also served as the keynote speaker, expressed admiration for the advancements witnessed in agriculture, aquatic sciences, and natural resources management over the past 45 years. He emphasized the consortium’s dedication and commitment to excellence, propelling it to new heights.
“In the 45 years that have passed since the consortium, we have witness advancement in the fields of agriculture, aquatic sciences and natural resources management. Our collective efforts fueled by dedication and our commitment to excellence have propelled us the new highs.”, Dr. Ebora noted.
CVAARRD is a regional consortium for research focusing on the niche areas of the agri-fisheries sector with Isabela State University as the host agency.