TARLAC State University  has formalized a partnership with Barangay San Isidro in Tarlac City to implement a program designed to strengthen disaster preparedness and promote environmental sustainability.

TSU representatives, led by Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Atty. Wilmark Ramos, joined barangay officials for the signing of a memorandum of agreement.

The initiative, titled Enhancing Awareness, Resilience, and Tactical Hazard Management in Securing Humanity through Innovation, Environmental Leadership, and Sustainable Development (EARTH SHIELD), will run until December 2028.

The agreement establishes a long-term extension and research initiative led by the Center for Engineering and Environmental Research (CEER) to enhance community resilience through innovation, hazard management, and sustainable development.

Barangay San Isidro, identified as flood-prone, was selected as the pilot community. Barangay officials expressed confidence that the program will improve local disaster readiness and provide lasting benefits for future generations.

Initial activities, starting January 2026, include updating the barangay’s hazard map, strengthening evacuation planning, and identifying safe routes during flooding, according to CEER Director Dr. Murphy P. Mohammed.

Faculty and students from the College of Engineering will also conduct road surveys and install flood-depth markers. The program will introduce advanced tools such as real-time monitoring systems, predictive analytics, and Geographic Information Systems.