February 23, 2026 — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region V, in collaboration with the Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT), officially launched a landmark tripartite partnership to implement Project SARAI (Smarter Approaches to Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry in the Philippines) across the Province of Masbate.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony, themed “Envisioning Smart Agriculture in the Province of Masbate,” was held today at Bams Hall, City of Masbate, solidifying a cooperative framework between DOST V, the academic sector, and the local government units of Mandaon, Mobo, Cawayan, and City of Masbate.
A high-level delegation from DEBESMSCAT, led by SUC President Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, reaffirmed the institution’s role as a cornerstone of agricultural research in the province. Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac Jr., Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation, delivered a stirring message of commitment and support, underscoring the college’s dedication to integrating science-based solutions into the local farming landscape in Masbate.
Joining the leadership team were Engr. Genesis Tumbaga, the newly installed Director for Research, and other key officers who will oversee the localized application of SARAI technologies.
Project SARAI aims to reduce climate-related risks by providing farmers with site-specific crop advisories and precision tools. During the ceremony, provincial and national leaders detailed the implementation framework, which includes the community-level monitoring system using satellite data, mobile applications for digital pest and disease identification, and water-balance-assisted systems for optimized irrigation. These high-tech interventions are designed to transform traditional farming into a modern, data-driven industry.
The event featured insights from prominent scientists, including Dr. Maria Victoria O. Espaldon, Founding Program Leader of Project SARAI, and Dr. Decibel F. Eslava, Program Leader of SARAI CeNTRO.
The success of the initiative was further bolstered by the presence and support of Masbate’s local chief executives and officials, represented by SB Member Hon. Felix Ponferada for City of Masbate, Hon. Mayor Kristine Hao-Kho and Engr. Jovel G. Corlet for Mandaon, Mr. Ronald A. Tauto-an for Mobo, and Engr. Jerome Godines for Cawayan.
According to the DOST V Project SARAI Bicol team, this activity is a cornerstone of collaborative efforts to enhance local agricultural resilience. By leveraging the expertise of DEBESMSCAT and the support of Masbate’s LGUs, the project is poised to transform the province into a hub for innovative and sustainable agriculture.
About Project SARAI Project SARAI is an action-research initiative funded by DOST-PCAARRD. It focuses on developing and deploying smart farming technologies to help Filipino farmers increase productivity and adapt to climate change through real-time data and science-based protocols.
Ladies and gentlemen,
