SOXAARRDEC Joins PRRI Region XII’s 4th Anniversary

The SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC) joined the Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI) in Region XII in celebrating its 4th Anniversary (March 6, 2026). The celebration of the anniversary was held last March 23, 2026 at Park Lay Suites in Kidapawan City.

The celebration began with the Welcome Remarks of Province of Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” T. Mendoza represented by The Metro Arakan Valley Complex Development Board (MAVCDB) Project Monitoring Office Manager Dr. Taya U. Tagitican.

This was followed by the Message and Director’s Report of the Executive Director III Dr. Cheryl L. Eusala of the Philippine Rubber Research Institute. She cited the accomplishments and achievements of PRRI in her term for the past three years.

It was followed by the Introduction of the Keynote Speaker by Dr. Glen Y. Ilar, the Chief SRS of RTESD of PRRI. Then the speech of Dir. Joseph S. Manicad of the High Value Crops Development Program was delivered. In his speech, he applauded the hard work and perseverance of rubber farmers in the nation.

This was followed by the awarding of Champion Partners of PRRI. The awarding ceremonies recognized the collaborations and contributions of the different partners. Among the awardees from the National Government Agencies are the Bureau of Plant Industry and Agricultural Training Institute XII, the Department of Agriculture – RFO XII (ARES), Local Government Unit of Carmen, Metro Arakan Valley Complex Project Management Office, The Training of Trainers Completers and the Private Sectors – Prime Homestead Agri-Ventures Incorporated (PHAVI) and Olmecs Processor.

This was followed by the Voices from the Field Testimonials of Mr. Daniel Engat, a rubber farmer beneficiary from Aroman, Cotabato. Then a speech was delivered by Training of Trainers Completer – Mr. Christopher Castillo from Metro Arakan Valley Complex Project Management Office – Province of Cotabato. The third testimonial was delivered by Consortium Director – Dr. Julius Jerome G. Ele.

He stated the several partnerships of SOXAARRDEC and PRRI for the past year. He stated that in 2025, the consortium fully committed its support to PRRI through the National Rubber Summit, attendance to the 15^th Anniversary of PRRI in Region IX, GOMAgaang Buhay Initiatives for the farmers in Carmen, Cotabato through the launching of the PRRI Improved Rubber Farming and Technology and Distribution of Rubber Budded Seedlings, Support for the Research, Development, and Extension Efforts through winning research and development papers during the 2025 National Symposium on Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development spearheaded by Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, partnership with government agencies, non-government agencies and state universities and colleges.

After every testimonial of the speakers, their agencies were given certificates of appreciation. SOXAARRDEC was awarded for its valuable partnership, continuous support, and commitment as a collaborator of PRRI in Region XII. The award signifies PRRI’s appreciation for the dedication of SOXAARRDEC for the growth and resilience of the rubber industry in the region. This was followed by Prime Homestead Agri-Ventures Incorporated (PHAVI) Farm, Lead Trainer, Mr. Alfonso Jack Sandique, President of PHAVI farms message.

The third part of the program showed audio visual presentations of the three years of the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Eusala and virtual tour of the R and D Building Plan of PRRI. The target construction of the building is slated this 2026.

After the audiovisual presentations, Hon. Jay Laurence S. Gonzaga, the Municipal Mayor of Magpet, delivered his message of commitment and partnership. This was followed by the message of commitment by Mr. Joseph Lago, member of the advisory council.

The distribution of power sprayer and planting materials to the Local Government Units representatives present during the event were given.

Lastly, the closing remarks was delivered by Ms. Girlie R. Saludo – Chief SRS – CMD.

SOXAARRDEC congratulates the Philippine Rubber Research Institute of Region XII on its 4^th year of service, commitment and dedication to the upliftment and continued progress of the lives of rubber farmers in the Region and of the nation.