Isabela State University (ISU) has joined hands with the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) to enhance sugarcane farming in Northern Luzon through the introduction of high-yielding sugarcane varieties, reports The Manila Times.
The initiative, titled “Rapid Propagation and Distribution of SRA Sugarcane High-Yielding Varieties in the Mill District,” officially began with the signing of a memorandum of agreement on July 1, 2025. The project aims to support smallholder farmers by increasing sugarcane yields through the use of improved varieties.
ISU described the partnership as part of its ongoing efforts to promote agricultural innovation and regional development. “This partnership is designed to increase sugarcane production by providing farmers with access to better-performing varieties,” the university said in a statement.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona led the efforts from the agency’s side, supported by Science Research Specialist Rose Mandac and ISU’s Director for Research and Development, Jeoffrey Lloyd Bareng, who represented the university in the project.
Azcona was represented at the signing by ISU Vice President for Research and Development, Extension and Training, Orlando Balderama, and ISU President Boyet Batang.
The university emphasized that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to modernize sugarcane farming and raise farmer productivity through research-driven practices.
“Through this partnership, ISU is strengthening its role in empowering local communities and helping transform the region into a model for science-based, resilient, and farmer-focused agricultural development,” the university added.
