GAD Introduces HGDG to Researchers, Extensionists; Eyes Application to Future Proposals
November 13, 2026
QUEZON CITY—The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) participated in the 26th Advisory Board Meeting of the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) on November 11–13, 2026, at the Luxent Hotel, Quezon City, Metro Manila.
The event is anchored on Section 8 of Republic Act No. 7307, or the Philippine Carabao Act of 1992, which provides policy direction on DA-PCC’s programs, budget, and operations.
USM was represented by Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel (USM President) and Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa (Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension), alongside Dr. Geoffrey R. Atok (DA-PCC at USM Center Director).
Central to the board meeting was the discussion on the implications of Republic Act No. 12308, or the Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act (AIDCA), for DA-PCC’s expanded mandate and collaboration with partner institutions in advancing the livestock industry.
DA-PCC also presented its accomplishments for evaluation and highlighted priority areas for research and development (R&D) initiatives. Partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) hosting PCC Centers then aligned these priorities with their crafted research proposals during the workshop.
As the agency transitions into the Philippine Carabao Center–National Institute for Animal Sciences (PCC-NIAS), discussions also covered the PCC-NIAS–SUCs Collaborative Research and Development Framework. This is to ensure a seamless institutional transition while maximizing the research capacities and resources of partner universities.
Serving as a vital platform for aligning R&D priorities, the event provided USM with strategic direction and collaborative opportunities to tailor its livestock research and extension programs to national industry needs.
Photo Credits: Department of Agriculture- Philippine Carabao Center
