Strengthening its commitment to responsive community engagement, a team of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) personnel conducted a coordination and site-scanning visit to identify potential extension program and project collaborations in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.
The ISAT U delegation was composed of Dr. Ma. Cora Biton (Faculty), Aima Carmela Monteblanco (Faculty), Arlo Dave Olarte (Project Assistant), Mark Alexander Rean Golingan (Project Assistant), and Ascer Glen Magno (University Extension Associate).
The team first visited the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center VI (ATI-RTC VI) at Balboa’s Coconut Integrated Farm in Barangay Vista Alegre, Barotac Viejo. The farm is managed by Mr. Mielbert Balboa, a proud ISAT U alumnus, and serves as a learning hub showcasing sustainable coconut-based farming technologies, agricultural innovations, and capacity-building initiatives for farmers and stakeholders.
The coordination visit also included Balay Kape Nagpana, a remarkable seed-to-cup coffee farm and café operated by the Ati Tribe through the Nagpana Minorities Association (NAMIAS) in Sitio Nagpana, Barangay Lipata, Barotac Viejo. The site highlights community-led coffee production while promoting indigenous culture, sustainable livelihoods, and eco-cultural tourism.
The visits opened meaningful discussions on prospective collaborations focusing on extension services, research, technology transfer, livelihood enhancement, entrepreneurship, sustainable agriculture, indigenous peoples’ development, and community innovation. These engagements reflect ISAT U’s continuing mission to build strategic partnerships that create lasting impact and empower communities through inclusive, relevant, and transformative extension programs.
Together, ISAT U continues to bridge the University and the community – fostering innovation, sustainability, and shared progress for all.
