The presentation of the Final Output of the Feasibility Study for the Tamlang Valley Sustainable Agriculture for Growth and Resiliency Project (TVSAGRP) was held yesterday, October 28, 2025, at the Rovira Suites, Dumaguete City. This project, a collaboration between Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office VII, aims to boost agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and promote inclusive economic growth in the region.
The guests were warmly welcomed by the University President, Dr. Noel Marjon E. Yasi. Dr. Merivic G. Catada, Vice President for Administration and Finance, introduced the guests. Dr. Angel C. Enriquez, Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture - Region VII, delivered a message to the attendees.
Former National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) 7 Regional Director Efren Carreon introduced the overall TVSAGRP Initiative and the socio-economic situation of Negros Oriental and Tamlang Valley. This was followed by a technical analysis of the physical characteristics and crop suitability analysis by Geologist Michael Vincent Tubog. Dr. Josie Rodriguez discussed the environmental and biodiversity analysis, providing crucial information on the valley's ecosystem, ensuring the project aligns with environmental sustainability and resiliency goals.
The legal aspects of Tamlang Valley were discussed by Atty. Marcelino Mikhail Lee L. Maxino, explaining the legal framework necessary for the project's implementation. Dr. Merivic G. Catada, Vice President for Administration and Finance, presented the agricultural plan, outlining the proposed agricultural strategies, which aim to modernize farming practices and increase the income-earning capacity of local communities.
Engr. Margarito Cabadsan, former Supervising Economic Development Specialist for NEDA 7, presented the comprehensive financial model, addressing the project's significant funding requirements and projected returns. Dr. Guilbert Nicanor A. Atillo, Director of University Extension and Community Services, described the management structure and institutional mechanism for overseeing the project's implementation.
The monitoring and environmental framework was presented by Mr. Rafael Tagalog, Supervising Economic Development Specialist at NEDA 7. Mr. Tagalog detailed the mechanisms for tracking progress and ensuring adherence to the project's commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly development.
The program also included an open forum to address stakeholders' concerns and foster consensus before proceeding to the final stage. The event concluded with a segment on major agreements and next steps by NORSU and DA. In his closing remarks , Dr. Edwin F. Romano Jr., Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, expressed his gratitude to all the attendees for their presence.