Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) proudly launched its flagship extension initiative, CTHM CARES (Community, Advancement, Resilience, Empowerment through Skills, Sustainability, and Social Outreach) today, September 6, 2025, at the Taclobo Gymnasium, Dumaguete City.

Spearheaded by the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM) under the leadership of Dean Dr. Tulip F. Lopez, this research-based extension program focuses on improving off-campus student accommodations by addressing pressing issues of safety, compliance, management, and sustainability.

With the theme “Sustainable Boarding House Management and Community Development,” the initiative places at its core the boarding house owners, managers, and operators equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and tools to strengthen their businesses while ensuring safe and student-friendly living spaces.

The program will be implemented in collaboration with the College of Business Administration (CBA), College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), and the Gender and Development (GAD) Office. Extension coordinators from each college who shared valuable insights to guide the project’s implementation were:
• Prof. Helen Cabije (CTHM)
• Prof. Frederick Roda (CBA)
• Engr. Louie Verbosidad (CEA)
• Prof. Tirso Alas-as (CCJE)

Also gracing the event were Hon. Roger Bohol, Barangay Captain of Taclobo; Dr. Edwin Romano, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension, Dr.Ryan Tayco, Campus Director; Dr. Lovely Tinguha, Dean of CBA; Dr. Josef Vill S. Villanueva, Dean of CEA; and Dr. Dennis Chu, Associate Dean of CCJE.

This collaboration underscores NORSU’s vision of empowering both students and communities by uplifting local entrepreneurs in the boarding house sector, fostering compliance and sustainability, and ultimately creating a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for students to thrive.