On September 26, 2025, the Layer Farming Project was officially launched at Sitio Ohot, Barangay Narra, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental with the theme “Sa Hagit sa Bag-ong Panahon, Dalan sa Kauswagan sa ORFIA.” The initiative, led by Project Leader Valiant Dominic D. Velarde in partnership with the College of Business Administration headed by Dr. Mayuan T. Calijan, aims to enhance community livelihood, strengthen food security, and promote sustainable farming practices.

A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was also signed between the Ohot Rice Farmers Irrigators Association (ORFIA) and the university. Signatories included Mr. Eric T. Nerosa, President of ORFIA; Dr. Francis M. Galon, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Forestry; Dr. Liza J. Caballero, Assistant Director for Academics, Research, Student Affairs and Extension; Dr. Mayuan T. Calijan, Dean of the College of Business Administration; and Ma. Milagros J. Belsondra, Campus Extension Coordinator.

Faculty members from both the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) and the College of Business Administration (CBA) were likewise present and will serve as trainers and lecturers every Friday to deliver technical guidance and entrepreneurial training to project beneficiaries.

This collaboration underscores the strong partnership between the academe and local farmers—working together to build resilience, enhance livelihood opportunities, and pave the way for sustainable community progress.