TARLAC State University has partnered with the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office III to establish the Central Luzon Agriculture and Fisheries Resources, Research, and Extension for Development Network.

A memorandum of understanding was signed over the weekend at the TSU President’s office, marking the university’s role as a Research for Development and Extension partner institution.

This collaboration will allow TSU to work alongside other state universities, local government units, private institutions, and farmers’ cooperatives to advance agricultural and fisheries research in Central Luzon.

“TSU, as a premier university in the region, is active and capable. You have expertise in developing technologies like solar-powered irrigation and IoT applications for precision agriculture,” Dr. Irene M. Adion, Regional Technical Director for Research, Regulation, and Integrated Laboratory Services, said.

Dr. Adion emphasized that TSU’s expertise will be crucial in advancing precision agriculture, one of the DA’s long-term goals.

The MOU outlines initiatives focused on knowledge management, technology incubation, scaling innovations, co-creation of technologies, responsive interventions, and policy development.

The creation of CLAFRREDN aligns with Republic Act No. 8435, the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997, which aims to modernize the sector, uplift farmers’ and fisherfolk’s lives, and enhance productivity and competitiveness in the Philippines.