Caraga State University (CSU) was invited to take part in the Innovations Forum held on February 2, 2026, a significant activity under the celebration of the 46th Araw ng Sibagat and 24th Bagat Festival, themed โBagat Festival 2026: Reimagining Encounters.โ Representing the CSU President, Dr. Rolyn Daguil, was Prof. Kenneth L. Ciudad, the director of the Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO).
The forum featured insightful discussions from innovators across different sectors. The first talk was delivered by Emi Englis, a Filipino fashion designer, who highlighted the abaca products of Sibagat weavers. He showcased existing innovations related to abaca processing and product development, emphasizing the value of culture-driven and community-based creativity. The potential and competitiveness, even in international arena, of traditional abaca woven fibers in Sibagat, only if capitalized and fully supported, was also highlighted.
The second talk was given by Engr. Ramon Barbosa, Proprietor of Amparitas Integrated Farm, who shared his journey in establishing the farm. He discussed the importance of continuous learning for farmers and the need to diversify products rather than rely on a single source of income, underscoring the role of value-adding in achieving sustainability. He also shared their effective, and most importantly sustainable farming practices, employing circular systems, where all parts of a commodity are utilized with value-adding processes and products.
The forum became a venue for sharing numerous innovations and practical insights, especially for abaca, coconut, and cacao products, serving as a reminder that there is still so much work to be doneโparticularly in strengthening partnerships with local government units (LGUs) and local cooperatives. It also reinforced the idea that Caraga has so much to offer, and as a supporting State University and College (SUC), CSU plays a vital role in nurturing innovation, collaboration, and community development.
