BASC GAD Research Team Secures Major Wins at CLSU’s National Gender and Development Congress

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija — The Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) demonstrated its research prowess on the national stage, securing major awards at the 4th International and 7th National Gender and Development Research Congress held at Central Luzon State University (CLSU) from November 19 to 21, 2025.

The congress, themed “Accelerating Social Inclusivity: Gender-Transformative Research for Sustainable Development,” brought together researchers from various Higher Education Institutions to share collaborative and purposive research activities aimed at empowering communities and achieving gender-responsive development. The event highlighted the crucial role of research in initiating, catalyzing, and sustaining development using institutional expertise.

Top Honors for Research Excellence

A standout achievement for the college was the team awarded 3rd Best Paper for their study titled “Project G.R.A.C.E. (Gender-Responsive Activities for Cooperatives’ Enhancement) Phase II.” The Certificate of Recognition was presented to the researchers:

·         Dir. Edna Mae D. Cruz – Director, Gender and Development Office

·         Dr. Imee D. Esguerra – Director, Extension Office

·         Dr. Billy Joe V. Villena – Director, Business Affairs Office

·         Engr. Joselito D. Tucit – Director, Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management Office

·         Dr. Amerigo B. Ramos Jr. – GAD Focal Person and Faculty Member, College of Education

This award highlights BASC’s dedication to actionable research that directly enhances the capacity and inclusivity of local cooperatives.

Recognition for Poster Presentation

In addition to the paper presentation, another BASC team secured the 3rd Best Poster Award for their study, “KaaGADpay: Gender Sensitivity Training and Other GAD-Related Activities for BASC External Clients.” The visual presentation was collaboratively developed by Ms. Rita D. Joson, Dir. Edna Mae D. Cruz, Engr. Joselito D. Tucit, Dr. Amerigo B. Ramos Jr., and non-teaching personnel members Ms. Corazon R. Ababa from the Internal Audit Office and Mr. Edmar V. Jarra from the Gender and Development Office. The award underscores the college’s effective extension efforts in promoting gender sensitivity among its external stakeholders.

Active Participation

Further demonstrating the college’s strong engagement, Ms. Rita D. Joson, a faculty member from the Institute of Arts and Sciences, was awarded a Certificate of Participation for her active involvement throughout the three-day international congress, where she contributed to the exchange of knowledge and best practices in gender and development.

These multiple recognitions affirm BASC’s growing reputation as a center for gender-responsive research and development in the region.

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Photo credits: Dir. Edna Mae D. Cruz, Ms. Emma Villacorta and Ms. Rita D. Joson